Your mental wellbeing is the unique way that you handle your emotions, respond to stress, and is determined by your general outlook on life. Having a healthy sense of mental wellbeing allows us to experience enjoyment in life, promotes resilience in difficult situations, set and fulfil goals, as well as build and maintain relationships.
Stress, however, is a normal part of life. No matter how much we may wish for a stress-free life, stress is a natural human response that is necessary and ever present. In small amounts, stress (such as having a deadline) can improve mental wellbeing, by boosting productivity, alertness, and energy levels. However, when our experience of stress becomes prolonged or greater than our ability to cope with, it can be physically and mentally draining. Chronic stress can have overwhelming consequences on your mind and body.
What is Burnout?
Burnout is a state of complete mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion. If you are experiencing burnout, you may notice it is difficult to engage in activities you normally find meaningful. You may no longer care about the things that are important to you or experience an increasing sense of hopelessness.
Signs and symptoms of burnout may include:
Physical symptoms
Headaches
Stomachaches/intestinal issues
Fatigue
Frequent illness
Changes in appetite/sleep
Emotional symptoms
Helplessness
Cynicism
Sense of failure or self-doubt
Decreased satisfaction
Feeling detached or alone in the world
Loss of motivation
Behavioural signs
Reduced performance in everyday tasks
Withdrawal or isolation
Procrastination
Outbursts
Using substances to cope
Causes of Burnout
Burnout is not caused solely by stressful work environments or too many responsibilities. It can be experienced by anyone with prolonged levels of chronic stress and pressure causing overwhelm as work or home demands.
Factors that contribute to burnout include:
Work-related causes
Having little or no control over your work
Lack of recognition
Overly demanding job expectations
Monotonous or unchallenging work
Chaotic or high-pressure environment
Lifestyle causes
Working too much, without socialising or relaxing
Lack of close, supportive relationships
Too many responsibilities, without enough help
Not enough sleep
Personality traits
Perfectionistic tendencies
Pessimistic view of yourself and the world
Need to be in control
High achieving in nature
Regaining balance in your life
If you recognize some of these warning signs starting to creep into your life or if they're already present, it's important to take action.
Turn to other people for support: friends, colleagues, or family
Reframe the way you look at work or your home life by finding value, meaning and balance
Reevaluate your priorities by taking time off or regular breaks during the day
Nourishing your creativity by doing something interesting
Make physical activity a priority to boost your mood and energy
Support your body with a healthy diet and quality sleep
Taking a few moments each day to nurture your mental wellbeing will help you be happier and more resilient.
Comments