There was always something I could never quite understand about myself. Why was it that, immediately after coming home from school, I would always feel so exhausted? After doing some research, I found that this is neither unusual nor uncommon. What I and so many other school-going children experience is called after-school restraint collapse.
As the name suggests, this is the sometimes inevitable loss of emotional control that students experience after holding everything together throughout the day. When you finally reach a safe space like home, it’s as if a pressure valve has been released. This social, emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion can lead to a variety of responses, such as irritability, fatigue, unresponsiveness, and, in some cases, hyperactivity or emotional outbursts.
However, there are ways to manage this. Most importantly, try to anticipate your needs. Set up a routine that includes decompression time—a time to reset and calm down healthily. This could be anything that works for you, from exercise to listening to music or taking a walk. Try to stick to this routine, as familiarity helps. If you find yourself becoming sensitive to sensory inputs, consciously limit them and let those around you know what you need so they can support you.
Be vocal about your needs. If you feel these symptoms are persistent and affecting your daily life, consider seeking professional help. Above all, remember that you are not alone. If you feel the need for some time to yourself, don’t feel any shame in claiming it. This is simply taking care of yourself so you can flourish when the sun rises again.