How to Identify Burnout and Recover

(NC) The mental, physical and emotional exhaustion that are hallmarks of burnout can start to creep up on you. Though often associated with work, burnout can happen in other situations too – the common factor is ongoing severe stress.

We all want to avoid burnout if we can, but it’s a common condition. In fact, according to a recent survey, feelings of burnout were the main source of stress related to a 12 percent drop in reported rates of excellent or good mental health compared to the survey’s 2019 results.

Left unchecked, burnout can also lead to other serious health issues like heart problems, digestion, and mood disorders, so it’s important to be on the lookout.

Signs to watch out for:

– Sleeping too much or too little
– Lack of motivation and feeling disengaged
– Cognitive problems like difficulty focusing
– Feeling isolated
– Feeling numb or a sense of dread
– Physical and/or mental exhaustion
– Tension headaches and stomach issues
– Cynicism, anger, or irritability

What you can do:

– Do something big or small that you enjoy
– Reaffirm work-life boundaries
– Practice self-care strategies
– Get active and eat well
– Take time off and really relax – even if it seems impossible
– Develop a support network of trusted family, friends, or a therapist

Another important just-in-case action is to speak with an expert about disability insurance, which can replace your income if you can’t work due to mental health issues from burnout.