Why winter break is essential

By Jordan Graber

Winter break, along with the two additional reading weeks we have at Mac, are a big deal.

It is a good idea to catch up on schoolwork during the winter break, but it is also a good idea to take a step back and slow down. We tend to underestimate the pressures and obligations of being a student. The limited breaks we have in the semester are well deserved, so we should try to maximize them.

As we’re getting back into the swing of things this term, I realize how little time many of the students here at Mac received over the winter holidays to really take a break. Compared to many universities in Ontario, McMaster’s scheduled “break” was rather short for some, considering exams lasted until Dec. 21, and classes began for this semester on Jan. 4.

While this is somewhat due to the extra reading week that has been introduced in the fall semester, it still doesn’t seem right that while there are some who get to go home in early to mid-December, there are others who must stay until the very end. I have friends who wrote examinations at 7 p.m. on Dec. 21. Considering packing and travel time, this can cut the winter break rather short.

Of course, it is different for everyone based on program, year, courses and many other factors. However, I think that everyone should at least be rewarded a full two weeks of holidays to relax, recuperate and prepare for the rest of the academic year.

I’m sure everyone can agree that exam season is an extremely stressful time and for many people, including myself, going home is the light at the end of the tunnel.

We are in an age of stress and an epidemic of anxiety and depression. Post-secondary institutions around the globe are calling for services to combat mental health rises in college and university students. Students are overwhelmed by the homework and burdens that often come alongside a full course load.

A survey taken in early 2017, involving 15 universities from across Ontario, revealed that mental health budgets had increased 35 per cent, levels of anxiety, stress and depression in university students has increased over 45 per cent and calls to the Mental Health Helpline have increased by 344 per cent; all in the last five years.

There are issues involving students and mental health in modern day society, and no one knows exactly what is going on. We do know that something must be done, because young people deserve to receive the best care and education in their perspective years at university.

Reading weeks and the winter breaks give students the time and space to revamp mindsets and restore healthy mentalities that will carry them to the end of the year. Students are not learning machines, nor should they act as such.

A new, high-pressure environment like university is something that shouldn’t be taken lightly, because it can have detrimental effects on those who feel as though they cannot take the time to loosen up and remember that they are not expected to be super-students.

It’s understandable that academic years are tight, but when it comes to the well-being of its students. McMaster should try to ensure that each student gets the holiday that they deserve.

As for you students, make sure you take the time you need to keep yourself on track and in a good place this year. When there is constant work, it is much too easy to fall into a dark place. That is why these breaks are important; they give us all time to breathe.