Burnout: A journey from Stress to Wellness
I've personally been there, and it's exhausting, confusing, and frightening, to say the least. Burnout has become a familiar term in our fast-paced, achievement-oriented world, yet its impact on our mental and physical health is far from trivial.
Characterised by a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress, burnout can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands. In our home offices, as the lines between work and home blur, especially in a post-pandemic landscape, understanding the complexities of burnout has never been more critical.
The Complex Pattern of Burnout: Understanding its Layers
Burnout originates from various sources, often involving personal, professional, and societal pressures. In the professional domain, factors such as long hours, a high workload, and the feeling of little to no control over one's work are significant contributors. A mismatch between job demands and an individual's capabilities, resources, or needs can lead to this state of exhaustion. On a personal level, individuals with a perfectionist tendency, a high need for control, or those who struggle to set healthy work-life boundaries are more susceptible. Societal expectations, particularly in a digitally connected world that glorifies busyness and productivity, further compound these pressures.
Understanding burnout requires recognising these complex causes and emphasising the need for a holistic approach to prevention and recovery. Identifying early signs is crucial, which can include chronic fatigue, insomnia, forgetfulness, increased illness, loss of appetite, anxiety, detachment, and a decrease in job satisfaction. For me, burnout and everything that was associated with my life were almost fatal. But, thankfully, I was able to overcome it with the help of therapy and a strong support system. I've also learned so much about myself from burnout and how to take care of myself. I now prioritise my mental health and well-being above all else and share and assist others as a burnout therapist specialist.
Pathways to Recovery: Healing from Burnout
1. Acknowledgement and Acceptance
The first step in overcoming burnout is acknowledging its presence. This means giving yourself permission to recognise that you're not just tired; you're experiencing something more profound that requires attention and care. Accepting that burnout is a real issue is crucial in order to begin the healing process and make positive changes in your life. Only by acknowledging and accepting your burnout can you begin to take steps towards recovery and self-care.
2. Seek professional support.
Consulting with a healthcare professional or a counsellor specialising in stress management and mental health can provide tailored advice and coping strategies. For those within the LGBTQIA+ community, finding a practitioner who understands your unique pressures and stressors is particularly important. Sure, it’s not just the LGBTQIA+ community that suffers from burnout; however, there is evidence to suggest that this targeted subsection of the community is often overcompensating in their work to assist them in feeling validated and accepted in a society that may not always be inclusive. It's vital to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and can greatly improve your ability to overcome burnout. Remember, you don't have to go through this alone.
3. Establish boundaries.
Creating clear boundaries between work and personal life is essential. This might mean setting specific work hours, ensuring you have regular breaks, or finding a hobby that allows you to disconnect from work-related thoughts completely. By establishing boundaries, you can prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Remember, taking care of yourself in your personal life is just as important as taking care of your career.
4. Prioritise self-care.
Self-care is a vital element of avoiding burnout and recovery, encompassing both physical and mental health. This can include regular exercise, a nutritious diet, sufficient sleep, and practices that support mental well-being, such as meditation, journaling, or engaging in activities that bring joy. I personally found journaling very effective during my own burnout and highly recommend it to others who may be experiencing similar challenges.
5. Cultivate a supportive network.
Having a strong support system can alleviate the sense of isolation that often accompanies burnout. Sharing experiences with friends, family, or a support group can provide comfort and advice on navigating recovery. We may not know how to speak to our managers about what is happening, or perhaps we have difficult managers that don't understand. At work, it's important to reach out to qualified support in your human resources departments. Unfortunately, during my own burnout, I was also struggling with coming out later in life. I felt even more isolated and alone and struggled with feelings of shame and self-doubt.
6. Reassess and realign goals.
Sometimes, burnout signals the need for a more significant change. This could mean reassessing career goals, redefining success, or realigning personal and professional objectives to better reflect your values and needs. Taking the time to reflect on what truly matters to you can help you make decisions that prioritise your well-being and happiness. Seeking guidance from a therapist or career counsellor may also be beneficial in navigating this process of reassessment and realignment.
7. Be ready to give yourself plenty of time.
Recovering from burnout is a journey of self-discovery and healing. It is important to be patient with yourself and allow for the necessary time to fully recover. I’m often asked by my clients how long it should take for the healing process to be complete. This time of wellness is unique for each individual; for some, it can take many, many months or even years. Remember that self-care and setting strong boundaries are crucial to preventing burnout in the future.
Prevention: Building Resilience Against Burnout
Preventing burnout is as crucial as addressing it. Cultivating a lifestyle that prioritises well-being and establishes a sustainable balance between work and personal life is key. This involves setting realistic goals, practising time management, learning to say no, and most importantly, fostering an attitude of kindness towards oneself. Recognising that it's okay not to be productive all the time can be a liberating realisation that paves the way for a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Additionally, workplaces play a crucial role in the prevention of burnout. Creating an environment that respects individual limits, promotes a healthy work-life balance, and encourages open dialogue about stress and workload can mitigate the risk of burnout. For employers, investing in mental health resources, providing access to counselling services, and ensuring that workloads are fair and manageable are steps in the right direction.
Burnout is a complex condition that reflects our relationship with work and ourselves. It serves as a signal that something is out of balance, urging us to re-evaluate our priorities and care for our well-being. By understanding its causes, recognising its symptoms, and taking proactive steps towards recovery and prevention, we can navigate through burnout towards a healthier, more balanced life. Let's remember that it's not just about surviving but thriving, both professionally and personally.
