As we edge towards the end of the year, many people experience a sense of ‘end-of-year fatigue’, common in highly stressful work environments and industries. But what if you or a loved one or colleague is experiencing something one severe than that? Actual burnout?
Below we draw attention to the signs and symptoms of real burnout and outline what steps you can take towards healing if you’re the individual experiencing it as well as how you can support someone going through burnout. Read more below.
While end-of-year (EOY) fatigue can be equated to a general sensation of ‘tiredness after a busy year’, burnout is an entirely different issue with significant mental, physical and emotional consequences. Knowing the difference between the two is essential in taking the right steps towards healing, recovery and support.
The difference between EOY fatigue and burnout:
Fatigue is a temporary feeling of tiredness or low energy, usually relieved by rest or a change in routine, like a long-weekend off or holiday, a new exercise routine or a few lifestyle changes.
In contrast, burnout is a state of chronic stress that goes unchecked and leads to emotional, mental and physical exhaustion. Burnout not only impacts work performance, but a person experiencing burnout will have impaired daily functioning and a breakdown in relationships, according to research published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology.
Symptoms of burnout:
- Chronic fatigue that does not improve with rest.
- Frequent headaches or muscle and body pains.
- Disruptive sleep, insomnia or excessive sleep.
- Feeling detached or cynical towards work or other responsibilities.
- A decreased sense of self worth or self esteem.
- Feelings of helplessness.
- Increased irritability and frustration.
- Reliance on unhealthy coping mechanisms, like alcohol, drugs, junk food, etc
- Socially isolating.
What to do if you’re experiencing burnout:
- Acknowledge what you’re going through – denial can only worsen the situation.
- Reach out for help – talk to a trusted colleague or family member or psychologist.
- Set boundaries – setting boundaries can help you reclaim personal time and not take on any additional or new commitments.
- Prioritise self-care – include meditation, relaxing exercises like yoga and breathing exercises into your daily routine.
- Seek medical help – you may need medical intervention and your medical doctor may work with a psychologist or psychiatrist to help through this process. Sometimes patients are prescribed antidepressants, anti-anxiety or mood-stabilising medications as well as behavioural cognitive therapy.
What to do if a loved one or colleague is experiencing burnout:
- Be a supportive listener – be empathetic and allow the person struggling to know that their feelings are valid.
- Encourage professional support – while you can be an empathetic ear, it’s likely that the person struggling needs professional advice, support and even medical treatment. A professional can help them develop coping strategies and a plan towards recovery.
- Check-in regularly – these check-ins can truly help someone on their journey to recovery.
If burnout is accompanied by depression, anxiety or thoughts of self-harm, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention with a medical professional can help prevent long-term mental health issues and provide a necessary treatment plan.