Have you ever felt like you just can’t keep up with your work demands?
Do you feel constantly exhausted, even after a good night’s sleep?
If you’re nodding your head, then chances are you’re suffering from burnout.
Burnout affects millions of people every year and is increasingly becoming a problem in today’s fast-paced and competitive world.
Let’s explore the science of burnout, including its causes, symptoms, and ways to prevent it.
What is Burnout?
Burnout refers to the state of prolonged unresolved stress in the human mind and body.
When we feel overwhelmed by stress, our body releases cortisol, which is the hormone responsible for the “fight or flight” response.
If stress continues for an extended period, cortisol production can cause severe damage to our brain cells.
We actually become desensitized to the “stress signals” resulting in a stress response that doesn’t function properly.
Recognizing Burnout
The symptoms of burnout begin to appear in stages.
In the initial stage, it includes a feeling of being constantly tired, unexpected mood swings and loss of interest in things you once enjoyed.
At the next stage, physical symptoms, such as chest pain, headaches, and stomach problems, appear.
Finally, when the levels of cortisol are high, the stage of exhaustion comes, which leads to severe physical and emotional damage.
What Causes Burnout?
The causes of burnout are often related to work, personal life, or society’s expectations.
At work, factors such as an overwhelming workload and an unappreciative boss, contribute to burnout.
Personal life stressors, such as financial problems or relationship issues, also lead to emotional burnout.
Society’s expectations of success, beauty, and perfection all put pressure on individuals, and when they are unable to meet these standards, it creates feelings of burnout.
Burnout Prevention
Here are a few tips for preventing burnout.
First, identify the symptoms of stress and burnout in the early stages.
Once you identify the warning signs, you can take preventive measures that suit your personal situation.
Second, taking a break from work, social media, and other obligations is essential, even if it’s just for a day or two. It is necessary to take a break to recharge.
Third, practicing mindfulness techniques such as yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises have proven to be helpful. These techniques can help reduce the levels of cortisol and help you relax.
Finally, self-care activities such as reading, listening to music, or taking a relaxing bath, should be included in your daily routine.
Burnout is not an inevitable situation.
Once you learn about the causes and symptoms, you can take simple measures to prevent it.
Remember – it’s important to take care of you!