Senioritis is an affliction of students in their final year of high school or college, often characterized by a decline in motivation or performance in school. While it can be caused by depression, it is just as possible to be academic burnout.

Senioritis is commonly posted about on social media, but how many seniors are actually affected by it?

“I would say maybe five to ten percent of seniors, I’ll notice a decline in either grades and or attendance,” said counselor Ms Bennett. 

Though, students seem to say otherwise.  “[It’s] Very, very common,” said Maia Lopez (12).

Average “symptoms” of senioritis include procrastination, poor attendance, low-focus, and even screen addiction. 

“Oftentimes, I see a grade dip, and oftentimes, I see attendance worsening, which tends to go hand in hand,” said Bennett.

Though there are many negative effects of senioritis, those who experience it try to find ways to combat it.

“I find my reasons for why I actually do want to go to school, which is seeing my friends and learning, sometimes,” said Grace Lish (12).

While people do find ways to overcome senioritis, it’s not easy for most people.

“I don’t know if it’s really avoidable, it’s really going to start hitting you when you’re like, ‘I’m going off to college, why do I have to keep doing this stuff?” said Lopez.

Even when it seems certainly imminent and or completely impossible to get over, it is possible to do, and you’re not alone in it. If you experience the effects of senioritis, reach out to your school counselor for guidance.

“Just do what you need to do to be able to enjoy these last few months of senior year,” said Bennett.