Burnout – recognising & rectifying
Burnout is a syndrome which occurs due to prolonged emotional strain of dealing extensively with other human beings, particularly in helper and recipient relationships.
Burnout is often classified as a type of stress. However, the origin of stress and long-term outcomes are very different. The table below outlines these differences:
Stress – characterised by Burnout – characterised by
Over-engagement Disengagement
Overactive emotions Helplessness and hoplessness
Exhausted physical energy Depleted motivation, drive, ideals and hope
Leads to anxiety disorders Leads to paranoia, detachment and depression
Causes disintegration Causes demoralisation
Primary damage is physical Primary damage is emotional
The typical response from sufferers of burnout is: “This job has always been stressful, but why am I having trouble now the job can’t be the reason. So it must be down to me.”
There are many symptoms of burnout the following are just some:
High resistance to going to work.
A sense of failure
Anger and resentment
Isolation and withdrawal
Feeling tired and exhausted
Loss of positive feelings towards clients
Sleep disorders
Avoiding discussion of work with colleagues
Self-preoccupation & blaming others
Frequent illness
Marital and family conflict
High absenteeism
If one gram of prevention is worth a kilo of cure, then the best way to beat burnout is to keep it from happening. Below are some self-care strategies:
Keep expectations realistic.
Reduce your workload.
Take allocated lunch breaks.
Consider a career break.
Develop and maintain interests outside of work.
Use your full holiday entitlement.
Recognise your own response to work place issues.
Seek skill-based counselling for mood management and support.
Source: Mental Health Academy