Senioritis is a term used for when a senior in high school has decreased motivation as they slowly get closer to graduation. It’s not a clinical term, but rather a colloquial one.

I’m currently reaching the end of my first semester as a senior and I’m here to confirm that senioritis is real. Although I’m not too far into the whole year, I have never been more tired from school in my life. My life itself is going great but I can’t help being so drained from all of the assignments and deadlines. All of this stress makes me wonder; is it just me?

When I asked some fellow seniors if they were having this problem too, they seemed to have the same feelings as me. “Sometimes I just don’t want to be here at school,” said Cason Langford.

Since this is our last year, of course it has gotten repetitive. “I’m just kinda burnt out from the previous years and I don’t feel like doing anything,” Isaiah Elizondo said.

Christmas break is right around the corner, but the wait is excruciating. “I’ve just been really tired and I can’t wait for a break,” said Arlene Trevino.

It’s not just the learning that’s taking a toll, it’s also activities outside of school. “Power-lifting has been working me and all of the schoolwork is piling up,” said Audrey Chupe. “I’d rather be at taco bell.”

Senioritis can also have a negative impact on your patience. “This final year feels like it’s dragging and I just want to graduate already,” said Patrick Weddel.

Even though senioritis isn’t a real sickness, it still has a few proven cures. Here are 4 ways you can fight it and get through the school year:

• Accept the feeling – Senioritis can make you feel different types of ways. It causes trouble when getting out of bed for school, a decrease in academic confidence, and an increase in sadness. You need to accept that those feelings are normal.
• Savor it – You only get one senior year of high school; give it purpose. You can join a new extracurricular, or club. Go to school functions and make new friends. Don’t let the stress take over your last year of high school.
• Set goals – Setting goals for yourself will help you stay engaged in your classes.
• Talk to others – Find someone that can relate to what you’re feeling; no one should feel alone in this.

The weight of senior year is definitely heavy, but you’re not the only one feeling this way and you can help yourself get passed it.