Burnout
Morgan Brittani
Hello, My Name Is Burnout.
Burnout is when someone suffers from physical, emotional and mental exhaustion or a state of ‘giving up’ due to excessive and prolonged stress.
Not sure if you have Burnout? When we constantly feel overwhelmed, drained, ‘done’ or unable to meet our deadlines it perhaps is a sign we’re suffering from burnout. Burnout** is often more pronounced in helping professions but can be experienced by all.
It will have you…
1) Lack of motivation to do tasks that previously did not seem difficult
2) No longer finding enjoyment in your daily tasks
3) Taking your frustration and irritability out on those around you
4) Having a negative outlook of the world at all times
5) Lowered immunity, increasing your chances of getting sick
** Note that depression is not the same as burnout all though it is mistaken as being similar. For example, those with depression have overreactive emotions and loss of energy, whereas someone suffering from burnout has dulled emotions or an apathetic view, and loss of motivation and hope.
Okay, now, how do I move forward?
1) Reach out to those around you: express how you are feeling without shame. Chances are, the people around you have experienced the same feelings you have and it can be a positive experience to share how you are feeling with another person.
2) If your burnout is tied to your work, try to become more sociable at work and form friendships (whether those friendships are big or small!). Feeling isolated in your workplace can cause burnout, so next time there’s a work lunch or dinner (or these days, zoom meetings). Try your best to attend and be present.
3) Prioritize your sleep. Research continues to show that those with poor sleep tend to suffer from work-related burnout. Whilst it is tempting in our society to pack more and more into our days, there is nothing wrong with knowing when to say no for the sake of your health.
Try to limit thinking of your job or ‘to-do’s’ in your leisure time and before bed. Of course, not all of us can get 7-9hrs of sleep but where possible, aim for a minimum of 7. Your body will thank you later!
Burnout Affirmation
I am more than my to-do list. Productivity does not define me.
Source: Harvard, Help Guide; Researcher: Devmi Epaarachchi