What is burnout? Ways to recognize the signs

 

Burnout is more prevalent than ever in our productivity-fixated culture and even more so for BIPOC and other marginalized identities. There also tends to be a spike towards the end of the year as people are eagerly looking forward to taking a break from their busy work lives to rest, to self-reflect and to connect with families and loved ones. As we continue to navigate pandemic fallout, many have been experiencing pandemic fatigue, which is a term synonymous to burnout (more commonly related to work-related stress). The years have been riddled with prolonged stress, pain, loss, fear and uncertainties which plays into the mental, emotional and physical exhaustion many of us are feeling as a result. ⁣

The term burnout is used to describe the experience of chronic stress (more commonly work-related) that leads to:

  • Physical and emotional exhaustion
  • Cynicism and detachment
  • Diminished sense of personal effectiveness and accomplishment

When you’ve reached full burnout, functioning effectively on a professional and personal level becomes challenging.

Burnout does not happen overnight. It gradually builds up as your mind and body are forced to navigate a constant state of stress. Some signs of burnout include:

Physical & emotional exhaustion

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • Forgetfulness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Physical pain
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Anger
  • Increased vulnerability to catch a cold/infection

Cynicism & detachment

  • Loss of enjoyment
  • Desire to avoid or escape work/stress
  • Pessimism
  • Isolation
  • Feelings of anger or resentment when people reach out
  • Disconnected from others or environment

Diminished sense of effectiveness & accomplishment

  • Feelings of apathy and hopelessness
  • Feeling useless or unimportant
  • Increased irritability
  • Lack of productivity and focus

BURNOUT OR DEPRESSION?

Ways to Prevent Burnout

  • Make time to honestly assess the amount of stress in your life and find ways to reduce it before you reach full burnout
  • GIve yourself permission to take a break from work. Schedule your breaks in advance and let others know you will be offline.
  • Nourish your body with healthy and nutritious food and incorporate daily exercise
  • Remind yourself that your worth is inherent (and not earned through constant accomplishments)

If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment or you’d like more information, please contact us.

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