Burnouts are concerningly common. In the US alone, 79% of American workers have experienced some degree of burnout. The telltale signs of burnout are similar for most individuals. They will usually include symptoms such as fatigue and exhaustion, excessive stress, and social withdrawal, as well as neglecting our physical and mental health.
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What is Burning Out Meaning? understandıng burnouts
Do you feel like you may be burning out? A licensed counselor who has completed an accreditation like an online Master’s in Counseling Psychology, for example, can help you overcome your symptoms, and rebuild, reset, and recover. Let’s discuss the signs that could indicate you may need professional support to help you recover from burnout.
Common Burnouts Sign # 1: Fatigue and Exhaustion: signs you are burnt out not lazy
Constant fatigue. It’s a common burnout sign. It is not only about physical exhaustion. But if you’re burnt out, you will be likely feeling mentally and emotionally so tired. What are the signs of burnouts? Generally these are low energy levels, a loss of focus and ability to concentrate.
Worse? You could even be more prone to becoming ill. Getting sick is a big part of burnout. We actually all know that if you don’t make time to rest, your body will force you to via these types of crises. The need for forced rest can happen at unexpected moments, like diseases. This is right before an important meeting or presentation at work, for example while you’re at an interstate conference.
Common Burnout Sign # 2: Extreme Stress and Tension
Possibly the worst part of burnout – besides fatigue – is the stress. Or you can feel tension and anxiety. When we’re burnt out, we can feel the pressure is coming from everywhere. This can be because of work or personal commitments or coping with life.
The worst part? Burnout stress can cause physical symptoms such as high blood pressure or hypertension and even in some cases insomnia. Also, chronic and long-term stress can cause you to develop mental illnesses or physical ones.
Common Burnout Sign # 3: Neglecting Your Physical Health
If you do not have motivation, you may also be unwilling to exercise or prioritize movement in your day. You’re so exhausted right? Hence, the last thing you feel like doing is running or lifting weights.
Even worse? Because of your extreme stress, you may also be experiencing insomnia. As a result, you will often wake up without a good rest. This situation will worsen your exhaustion.
Common Burnout Sign # 4: Declining Mental Health and TYPES OF BURNOUT
Burnout can commonly lead to low moods and even an increased risk of developing related mental illnesses such as depression or anxiety.
The relationship between burnout, depression and anxiety has a scientific background. Research findings have shown that burnout and depression in particular have many correlations. Such as apathy, emotional exhaustion and a lack of motivation.
Common Burnout Sign # 5: Social and Emotional Withdrawal
Are you feeling unmotivated and moody? Burnout is often characterized by a sense of disillusionment. If you find yourself withdrawing socially and emotionally, you could be burnt out.
how long does burn out last? how do you burn out ?
When we’re burnt out, even socializing with close friends and loved ones can feel like too much effort. We might find ourselves getting frustrated with those around us. And also we can finding it difficult to express ourselves. When we feel this way, it’s tempting to withdraw from social events. We might find ourselves isolating ourselves from others. Why? Social withdrawal is likely a product of the accumulation of burnout symptoms. And these are commonly lack of motivation, low energy and low moods.
How to Recover from Burnout: how to help someone who is burnt out ?
So, you’ve identified the signs and recognized that you’re experiencing burnout. How, then, do you recover?
First, take a break. A change of scenery does wonders like everyone says. If you have the capacity and the annual leave right, a holiday can help ease your symptoms. If a holiday is a luxury you can’t afford, however, there are other options. Also you can schedule some self-care. For example, you can set aside time to do things that soothe your soul. Whether it’s going for a massage or having an at-home spa day, taking rest is the best way to recover.
why am i burnt out from doing nothing ? burnout syndrome
Burnout can be a tricky thing. Because it doesn’t always happen from working too hard. Sometimes, it can actually come from a lack of stimulation or feeling like you’re not accomplishing anything.
Here’s the deal. Our brains and bodies crave a sense of purpose and progress. When we do not feel like we’re stagnating, it can actually lead to feelings of fatigue or lack of motivation. This is what’s known as “burnout syndrome.”
It’s almost like your brain gets bored and starts to shut down a little. Without that sense of achievement, you can start to feel drained and even if you’re not physically exerting yourself.
am i burned out ?
The good news is, there are ways to combat this. You can try setting some small and achievable goals for yourself. Even if it’s just cleaning out a drawer or learning a new skill. Also you can find ways to see a progress into your routine. These can help recharge your batteries and prevent burnouts.
The key is finding a balance actually. Because you don’t want to overwork yourself. But you also don’t want to completely let it go. For finding balance within yourself, firstly, listen to what your mind and body are telling you. Even it is not talked that much, burnout is a real thing. But working on self-awareness, you can stay motivated and energized.
Need more support? In every case, do not underestimate your situation and please seek professional help from a licensed therapist.
Irwin Michael Reston is an expert who has more than 30 years of experience in optimizing businesses, inspiring individuals and improving human resources departments. He established the BlueLight Consulting Limited to provide learning and training service worldwide.
