First published 29 August 2024

And if it is, do you know the signs?

I’ve heard some comments that Burnout isn’t a real thing – thankfully not often, but I have heard it said.

The World Health Organisation have classified burnout as an Occupational Phenomenon!  They state that it results from chronic workplace stress that isn’t adequately managed.

I think I am going to disagree… personally, I don’t think it can be restricted to only workplace stress, chronic stress can occur in many different spaces and places and in many circumstances, for me, the key is chronic stress and not the location where stress occurs. 

(The WHO article from 2019 clearly states this only applies to an occupational concept and not experiences in other areas of life – so I guess my opinion is highly ‘unofficial’!)

Over the last few weeks I have worked with a number of clients who have expressed concerns about feeling burnt out (and even had a friend ask me if I was heading that way this week – hence my research and writing today!)

So, how do you spot it in yourself or in someone you care about?

Some common signs to be on the lookout for (and this is by no means an exhaustive list!):

• Emotional Exhaustion:  Feeling drained, emotionally exhausted, irritable, or indifferent.
• Depersonalisation: Feeling detached, cynical (more so than usual perhaps!), or having a more negative attitude than normal towards work (or other aspect of your life)
• Reduced Personal Efficacy:  Feeling ineffective, unmotivated, or lacking in accomplishment
• Physical Symptoms: headaches, fatigue, change in appetite, digestive issues – if these are symptoms you normally experience, have they gotten worse? (and if they are normal symptoms, why aren’t we already working together?!?)
• Sleep Disturbances: is it more difficult than normal to fall asleep, stay asleep, or are you waking up feeling worse than you did when you went to bed?

If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else then it’s important to take action before it gets worse – and if it is burnout, it will likely get worse!

But, what action should you take?  The first thing to do is find support – this can come in many shapes and sizes:

Talk to a trusted friend or family member:  Sharing how you feel can help to provide emotional support and validation, just choose who you want to talk to wisely!  Pick someone who will listen without judgement and without the need to ‘try to fix you’!  You are not broken, you don’t need to be ‘fixed’.

Seek professional help:  The GP can be a good first step to finding what options are open to you.  They may be able to refer you to a therapist, a counsellor or perhaps a support group.

Consider Complementary Therapies (👋): Kinesiology, hypnotherapy, or reiki can help address all aspects of burnout (and lucky for you, I can now do all 3!  Did I mention I am now qualified in Reiki 😉).

Remember, you are most definitely not alone.  Many people experience burnout.  When we recognise the early signs and seek out support, we can take steps to overcome and regain our well-being.

If you (or someone you know) are struggling with burnout and feel isolated or just not sure who you want to trust to work through it with, reach out for a discovery call (or a zoom coffee – zoffee).

I’m here to offer compassionate support, guidance and company on your journey to wellness and resilience.