Probably one of the most common mental health problems experienced by modern society is burnout. Burnout, by definition, is a psychological syndrome brought about in response to stress, particularly job-related, due to mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion, feelings of doubt and distrust of one's abilities, and a sense of ineffectiveness and lack of accomplishment. The psychologist Herbert Freudenberger was the first who used the term “burnout” and described it as the loss of motivation, growing sense of emotional depletion, and cynicism. Once not considered a mental disorder, today, burnout is recognized as a psychological disorder with its ICD-10 code (Z73.0 – Burn-out state of vital exhaustion). Most of the symptoms of burnout are similar to those of depression, including extreme fatigue, loss of passion, and intensifying cynicism and negativity. Other signs and symptoms may include:
TIP #1: Recognize the warning signs.Identifying you’re in a state of burnout is a key to prevent ordeal with it. This allows coping mechanisms to help you undo the damages and regain focus, energy, and sense of well-being.
TIP #2: Seek support.Social support, whether coming from your co-workers, friends or families might help you cope. You may want to talk to your supervisor and discuss things that concern work issues related to burnout. This way, both of you can work together to change expectations or reach compromises and solutions.
TIP #3: Relax and clear your mind.Have some time off and take a complete break from work when you feel you’re getting too exhausted. Try a relaxing activity, such as yoga or meditation, as well as breathing exercises to flush out the stress and achieve a state of restfulness. You may opt for a vacation to recharge and reset your mind.
TIP #4: Get some sleep.Feeling tired can make you think irrationally, which may exacerbate burnout. Make some way out from stressful situations by getting a good night’s sleep. Sleep restores well-being and helps protect your mental and physical health.
TIP #5: Exercise.Physical activities, especially exercise, is a natural way of flushing out stress and burnout. It can take your mind off work and boost your mood.
TIP #6: Have yourself a great massage. Massage can relieve the devastating effect of stress-related burnout from work. A simple stroke on your nape and upper back can definitely release some tension and help you relax. A Recovapro massage gun can come in handy when you feel the need for a relaxing massage anytime when you’re at your office desk.