Burnout
What Is Burnout?
Our workplace can be a source of much support or stress. They can be nurturing environments, and can also be toxic environments. The WHO describes burnout as an occupational phenomenon consisting of feelings of depletion or exhaustion; increase in mental distance; and reduced professional efficacy. Other definitions of burnout involve prolonged and unmanaged stress that causes emotional, attitudinal and physical difficulties. Burnout is more than a single bad day or week at work. It is a state of mental and physical exhaustion.
Research on burnout has often involved its effects on individuals such as paramedics, doctors, and nurses. These individuals are usually seen as at risk to develop burnout. However other individuals such as teachers, veterinarians, police officers and other helping professions such as social workers are also at risk for burnout.
It is not hard to picture how paramedics and doctors may become burnt out. Paramedics work long hours in a challenging and extremely high stress environment. Other healthcare professions also work in an extremely emotionally exhausting environment, and eventually burnout can occur.
Recent research describes burnout occurring in other parts of one’s life aside from one’s occupation. For example, it is not difficult to imagine a new mother eventually experiencing symptoms of physical and emotional exhaustion whilst caring for a newborn, without sufficiently managing this stress. Another example could be a professional athlete.
So, I would describe burnout as a syndrome consisting of emotional, cognitive and physical effects resulting from prolonged and unmanaged stress, from a role one plays in life. I prefer this definition as it shows that someone can become burnt out from activities outside of their work/occupation.
What are the symptoms of Burnout?
Emotional Impacts:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Feeling like you are detached from your body
- Dreading work or the role you perform
Cognitive Impacts:
- Poor attention and concentration
- Memory issues
- Decreased productivity
Physical impacts:
- Sleep Issues
- Bodily Complaints (e.g. headaches)
- Attempting to avoid work/roles
- Increase in stress hormones
- Decreased immune system health
- Increase in inflammation
These effects lead to poorer performance in one’s work and personal life. While burnout can originate from one part of an individual’s life, it can impact other areas.
How to Prevent Burnout?
Most research suggests it is easier to prevent burnout rather than to deal with burnout once it is occurring.
Strategies to prevent burnout include:
- Time management
- Reduce work stressors
- Self-care
- Improve work-life balance
- Exercise
- Maintaining a healthy diet
- Get enough sleep
- Take leave when needed
- Consult with a psychologist
- Social support (friends, family and even support groups)
- Practise Mindfulness
While these methods are useful, they may not be enough once someone is experiencing burnout. In reality, we rarely see the subtle clues that burnout is occurring. We realise we are burnt out too late to make these preventative strategies.
What to do When We Are Burnt out?
If you believe you are in burnout, the above strategies can help but may not be enough. Therapy may be needed in severe burnout.
We live in a fast-paced society. Our workplaces or professions may be sources of huge stress. Similarly, other roles or jobs (such as parenting, relationships, sports activities, clubs/organisations, etc.) can also be a source of significant stress. It is important to try take care of ourselves to ensure happiness, health and longevity. Burnout is unfortunately prevalent in our society.
Should you be worried about burnout, you are welcome to contact me at Thrive.
Self-Care is Not a Luxury, it’s a Necessity
Your Productivity is Not a Measure of You Worth
Steve
* The information provided on this blog is for general informational not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are concerned please consult a medical professional.