Burning The Candle At Both Ends?

... what is burnout, and how do I recognize it?

If you are feeling exhausted and disconnected, you just might be experiencing burnout.

Basically burnout is chronic stress that is not successfully managed. (World Health Organization, WHO)

If you're struggling with burnout you may feel

1. Exhausted or rundown

2. Apathetic, distant or negative - about almost everything

3. you cannot work to your full capacity

Are you at risk for burnout?

Anyone is at risk for burnout if their daily tasks feel too overwhelming to accomplish, there is no easing of pressure, and there is no chance of respite between activities. Although burnout is often associated with work and the workplace, it can hit any part of your life.

Symptoms of burnout include:

Physical:

1. Exhaustion

2. Digestive Problems

3. Other Physical Complaints

4. General Lack of Energy

5. Sleep Disturbances

Behavioural Signs:

1. Poor Performance at work

2. Unable to concentrate

3. Procrastination

4. Lacking Creativity or Inspiration

5. Negativity/Cynicism

6. Taking Sick Leave

Emotional:

1. Emotionally overwhelmed or numb

2. Unable to cope with daily tasks

3. Difficulty processing emotions

4. Resentment towards job/role, or work colleagues

5. Anxiety

6. Low mood

Here are 7 things you can do if you think you are experiencing burnout.

1. Take a break, step back and breathe

2. Make sure you are eating properly and fuelling your body with dense nutrients, and getting enough sleep - at lease 7 hours a night

3. Ask to speak to a good friend, or someone you trust for help.

4. Take a couple hours out of your day to do something you enjoy, self care is going to be your friend during times of stress.

5. Try some light exercise - like yoga or pilates, and meditation

6. Ask for help at work. If work is the cause for your burnout, talk to your manager, or HR department.

7. Get in touch with you EAP or assistance mental health programs at work, or in your community.

Burnout is real, and can sneak up on you when you least expect it to. Recognize the signs and prevent it from taking over your life.

xoxo

Amanda