Burnout

Burnout is a state of chronic physical and emotional exhaustion, often caused by prolonged periods of stress or overwork. Identifying burnout is crucial for taking timely action to address and prevent further negative consequences.

A stressful lifestyle can put you under extreme pressure to the point that you feel unable to cope. Not knowing how to manage your time. Stress can cause physical and mental symptoms such as feeling physically, mentally, and emotionally drained, in pain, and exhausted. You become unable to carry out daily tasks whether at work, at home or with family members. You also find yourself experiencing an increased level of frustration at work, becoming increasingly negative, isolated and withdrawn from anything related to work, including colleagues.

It is important to note that burnout is a gradual process and can manifest differently in each individual. If you notice several of these signs persisting over an extended period, it's crucial to take steps to address burnout. Consider seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals, and make changes to your lifestyle and work habits to promote well-being and balance. Prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and taking breaks are essential steps in preventing and managing burnout. If you are unsure about your feelings or symptoms, consult with me by clicking on the ‘Contact me’ button at the bottom of this page.

So, what is Stress?

Stress is a part of life. It is a protective mechanism that allows us to assess danger that produces the fight-or-flight response. When we perceive something as stressful, our brain sends signals that floods our body with chemicals like cortisol, epinephrine and norepinephrine which increases heart rate for instance. It can be a pleasant and an unpleasant experience. Defined as an emotional or physical tension.

When it is positive, or beneficial, it is referred to as Eustress. This will happen for instance when you are looking forward to a special event and have feelings of excitement, fulfillment, satisfaction. This will often be accompanied by feelings of confidence. Sometimes stress can motivate you to perform or focus better. Some researchers have found that some stress can be helpful to strengthen the immune system. One study showed that exposure to moderate stress levels before surgery, recovered faster than those people who experienced low or high levels of stress. This means that some stress is beneficial. And yet at other times, stress can also be overwhelming.

When the stress is negative, it will often be accompanied by feelings of inadequacy, fear, discomfort in the body and mind. We know that with prolonged periods of negative stress we can get ill. Negative stress will be detrimental to our life and can lead to so many ailments. Some people burn out.

What are the side effects of negative Stress?

Emotional stress can last for weeks and months. It can weaken the immune system so you get ill more easily. It can cause fatigue, high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, heart disease, headaches, changes in appetite, inability to concentrate, irritability, anger and so much more.

‘Burnout’

The term ‘Burnout’ was coined by the American psychologist called Herbert Freudenberger in the 1970 ’s. He used it to describe the effects of severe stress and high ideals in the ‘helping’ professions such as doctors and nurses. Nowadays, it is used for anyone, from any field of life. There is no clear consensus as to what ‘Burnout’ actually is, except for the fact that a person reaches a point of exhaustion which can have both physical and mental consequences.

What are the signs and symptoms of Burnout?

 Physical Symptoms:

 -Chronic fatigue and low energy levels.

 -Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.

 -Headaches or muscle tension. 

-Changes in appetite or eating habits.

 -Weakened immune system, leading to frequent illnesses.

Emotional Signs:

 -Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. 

-Increased irritability and impatience.

 -Heightened cynicism and negativity.

 -Reduced ability to concentrate and make decisions.

 -Loss of interest and enthusiasm in previously enjoyable activities.

Behavioral Changes: 

-Withdrawal from responsibilities or social interactions.

 -Procrastination and avoidance of tasks. 

-Decreased productivity and work performance.

 -Increased use of unhealthy coping mechanisms (e.g., excessive use of alcohol or other substances).

Cognitive Issues:

 -Persistent feelings of being overwhelmed. 

-Forgetfulness and difficulty in concentrating.

 -Impaired judgment and decision-making.

Interpersonal Challenges: 

-Strained relationships with colleagues, friends, or family.

 -Increased conflicts or tension in personal and professional interactions. 

-Difficulty in empathizing with others.

Loss of Motivation:

 -Decreased motivation and enthusiasm for work or life in general. 

-Feeling detached or emotionally distant from work-related tasks.

Physical Health Issues:

 -Development of stress-related health conditions such as cardiovascular problems, gastrointestinal issues, or chronic pain.

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