Stressed? Know the 5 Signs of Burnout
When I met my boyfriend, one of the things that connected us is that we both have experienced burnout - so we really understood what each of us had been through. And here the crazy thing that is true for both of us - when we were in the throws of burnout, we did not know! We both just thought that life was hard. We just worked harder, until we couldn’t.
Life IS at times hard, and stress hits us everyday, multiple times a day. And studies are showing that we all are continuing to struggle more so, even after the pandemic. Our body responds to help us get through, but if we stay in chronic stress, it can overly tax our nervous system where life seems to fall apart. It’s important to know the signs based on research, so that you can maintain your well-being and course-correct by taking proactive steps if need be.
These are the signs that we both wish we knew years ago:
Persistent Exhaustion: One of the hallmark signs of burnout is persistent exhaustion that goes beyond feeling tired. This exhaustion may manifest physically, mentally, and emotionally, leaving you feeling drained and depleted regardless of how much rest you get. Research indicates that chronic stress, a common precursor to burnout, can disrupt the body's natural stress response system, leading to fatigue and decreased energy levels. Pay attention to feelings of physical and emotional fatigue that persist despite adequate rest.
Decreased Performance and Productivity: Burnout can significantly impact your ability to perform effectively in various aspects of your life, whether it's at work, school, or home. You may notice a decline in your productivity, increased procrastination, or difficulty concentrating on tasks. Studies have shown that chronic stress associated with burnout can impair cognitive function, memory, and decision-making abilities, making it harder to meet deadlines and achieve goals. Be mindful of changes in your performance and seek support if you find yourself struggling to maintain productivity.
Emotional Distancing: Another common sign of burnout is emotional distancing or detachment from work, relationships, and activities that once brought you joy. You may find yourself becoming cynical, indifferent, or emotionally numb as a result of prolonged stress and overwhelm. Research suggests that burnout can lead to emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment, which can strain interpersonal relationships and diminish your overall satisfaction with life. Pay attention to changes in your emotional responses and seek connection and support from others.
Physical Symptoms: Burnout doesn't just affect your mental and emotional well-being; it can also manifest in physical symptoms that shouldn't be ignored. Common physical manifestations of burnout include headaches, muscle tension, gastrointestinal issues, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns. Chronic stress associated with burnout can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses and infections. Listen to your body and prioritize self-care practices such as exercise, healthy nutrition, and adequate sleep to support your physical health.
Loss of Interest and Motivation: As burnout takes its toll, you may find yourself experiencing a loss of interest and motivation in activities that once brought you pleasure and fulfillment. Hobbies, social events, and personal goals may start to feel like burdens rather than sources of enjoyment. Research suggests that burnout can diminish intrinsic motivation—the drive to engage in activities for their own sake—and lead to feelings of apathy and disillusionment. Pay attention to shifts in your interests and motivations, and consider seeking professional help if you're struggling to find joy in life.
Recognizing the signs of burnout is the first step toward taking control of your well-being and preventing deterioration. By being vigilant about monitoring your health, actions, feelings and thinking, you can intervene early and implement strategies to manage stress effectively. HERE is a quiz that I created so that you can see your specific results. And remember, the answer isn’t working harder. Seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals is not a sign of weakness but a proactive step toward prioritizing yourself and reclaiming your vitality. Pause for a moment on your responsibilities and reflect upon what you can step back from to give you space to heal and make changes. Life WILL start to feel easier.
Next week, we will dive into the array of solutions. And in the meantime, I am happy to talk to you to help you get started on feeling better. Just reach out.
If this post was helpful, please forward to a friend or colleague so that we can diminish burnout!