Have you ever felt so tired the idea of doing anything is exhausting? If so, you’re not the only one who has noticed they no longer have the energy to interact with loved ones or engage in favorite activities. You’re not alone if you feel burnout from relationships, responsibilities, or work. But, there are ways to cope with being burned out.
What Is Burnout?
Burnout is a state of mental, physical, or emotional fatigue often related to repetitive or prolonged stress. Most people experience burnout because of work situations, but relationships, caregiving, or parenting are other sources of stress.
What Are Causes of Burnout?
Most people feel burned out when they don’t have control over a project or are given a responsibility that conflicts with their core values. Additionally, goals that don’t reflect a person’s true self or the lack of a support system can increase the risk of burnout.
What Are the Symptoms of Burnout?
If you don’t feel inspired or connected to your job, relationship, or role, you risk your mental and physical health. Why? Because while you feel a sense of responsibility to perform a job, stay engaged in a relationship, or complete a goal, you aren’t adjusting to meet your needs.
If you don’t make the necessary adjustments, take a break, or incorporate self-care into your daily life, you can experience the following symptom:
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Substance misuse
- Depression
- Stress
Take an inventory of your emotions. Go beyond physical and mental exhaustion and pay attention to your feelings. Do you have these feelings:
- A sense of dread about work or a relationship
- Anger
- Irritability
- Cynicism
If you experience harmful thoughts or engage in risky behaviors, talk with a therapist.
How Do I Know if I’m Stressed or Burned Out?
Stress is short-lived or connected to a specific situation. Burnout is prolonged stress, but that doesn’t mean it is stress. Burnout is when you feel hopeless, apathetic, and empty.
How Can I Cope?
Unfortunately, even if you recognize why you’re feeling burned out, that doesn’t mean you can completely fix the situation. However, because the causes of burnout are often out of your control, you can take these steps to decrease burnout:
Self-Care
You can’t help anyone if you don’t take care of yourself. In the case of burnout, taking care of yourself is a priority. Spend time doing something you enjoy or trying new things.
Delegate
Let others know you need help. If someone offers to help you, delegate parts of the project to them. Again, be specific about your needs and how others can relieve some of your stress.
Stay Social
Talking or spending time with family or friends can help you de-stress. Whether you’re socializing or engaging in an activity you like, taking time away helps heal your mind and body.
Set Boundaries
When you leave work, don’t bring it with you. While it’s hard to escape from work or responsibilities, remember that your well-being is your priority.
Prolonged stress is an underlying cause of burnout. Unfortunately, situations out of your control can increase the risk of burnout. Finding healthy ways to cope is essential to your well-being. Perhaps you realize that you need to learn healthy ways to address burnout. The Guest House is a safe, comfortable place where you can re-connect with your inner self. Our therapists will guide you to understand the causes of burnout while encouraging you to explore activities that can decrease depression or anxiety. Let us help you nourish your inner self. To learn more, call us today at (855) 483-7800.