Therapy Newcastle: Burnout
Therapy Newcastle: Understanding Psychological Burnout
‘Burnout is nature’s way of telling you, you’ve been going through the motions your soul has departed; you’re a zombie, a member of the walking dead, a sleepwalker’. – Sam Keen
Psychological burnout is a state of chronic physical and emotional exhaustion that is often caused by prolonged exposure to stressors, such as work-related pressures or personal demands. It is characterised by feelings of overwhelming fatigue, cynicism, and detachment from work or other activities that were once enjoyable. Burnout can affect various aspects of a person’s life, including their mental and physical health, relationships, and overall well-being. It is important if working to speak with manager and HR, reviewing symptoms with your General Practitioner prove helpful for many.
Emotional changes are also prevalent in burnout. People may feel a sense of emptiness or lack of fulfilment, as if they have lost their sense of purpose or meaning. They may also experience heightened irritability, mood swings, or a general sense of negativity. Additionally, individuals may withdraw from social interactions, preferring solitude or isolation.
Physical symptoms can also accompany burnout. These can include frequent headaches, muscle tension, and digestive problems. Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or oversleeping, are also common. Furthermore, individuals may be more susceptible to illnesses due to a weakened immune system. Burnout can have an impact on personal relationships. People experiencing burnout may become more distant or detached from their loved ones, finding it difficult to connect or engage in meaningful interactions. They may also experience conflicts or misunderstandings due to their emotional volatility or lack of energy to invest in relationships.
One effective strategy for preventing or recovering from burnout is to establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. This can be achieved by setting specific work hours and sticking to them, avoiding checking work emails or taking work-related calls outside of those hours. By creating a clear separation between work and personal life, individuals can reduce the risk of becoming overwhelmed and experiencing burnout.
Another effective strategy is to prioritise self-care and engage in activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction. This can include regular exercise, practicing mindfulness or meditation, getting enough sleep, and engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy and fulfilment. Taking time for oneself and engaging in activities that promote well-being can help prevent burnout and aid in recovery if burnout has already occurred.
Seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist is also crucial in preventing or recovering from burnout. Talking about one’s feelings and experiences with trusted individuals can provide emotional support and perspective. Additionally, seeking professional help from a therapist can offer guidance and strategies for managing stress and preventing burnout. Building a support network and reaching out for help when needed can be instrumental in preventing and recovering from burnout.
Implementing effective time management techniques. This includes prioritising tasks, breaking them down into manageable chunks, and setting realistic deadlines. By effectively managing time and avoiding procrastination, individuals can reduce stress levels and prevent burnout. Additionally, learning to delegate tasks and ask for help when necessary can also alleviate the burden and prevent burnout.
Lastly, it is important to regularly assess and reassess one’s goals and expectations. Setting realistic goals and adjusting them as necessary can help prevent burnout by avoiding overwhelming workloads or unrealistic expectations. Regularly evaluating one’s priorities and making necessary adjustments can contribute to a healthier work-life balance and reduce the risk of burnout.
