What is Job Burnout?

Every job is stressful. No matter how hard employers try to mitigate stressors, there will always be something an employee finds stressful about their work. Naturally, human beings are hardwired to fault-find. In fact, I dare say that and our biggest preoccupation at times, is finding fault in that which others may consider perfect. And so, a little stress is inevitable. Whereas a little stress is healthy, at times, work related stress can cause someone to feel exhausted physically and emotionally. Consequently, the exhaustion leads to reduced accomplishment and loss of identity. At such a point, its highly likely that one is experiencing job burnout.

Many people confuse burnout with depression because the two can share symptoms. For instance, in both, one experiences chronic fatigue, insomnia, unexplained headaches among other signs. However, the two are distinct. Notably, burnout can lead to depression if not addressed in good time. So how do you know that you are experiencing burnout? If you have become cynical or critical at work, you find it hard to go to work and starting on tasks, you are irritable and inpatient with clients and co-workers, you are fatigued and unable to be productive, you find it hard to concentrate, you lack satisfaction and a sense of achievement from your work, you feel disillusioned about work, you are using drugs to cope with stress, insomnia and unexplained headaches and stomach problems, then most probably, you are.

Job burnout results from: lack of control at work(inability to influence decisions at work), unclear job expectations especially from supervisors, dysfunctional workplace dynamics(office bullies, micromanagement and being undermined by your boss/colleagues), too much work, lack of social support and work life imbalance. Unchecked burnout may cause: excessive stress, insomnia, fatigue, sadness/anger/irritability, alcohol or substance misuse, heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and weakened immunity.

In conclusion, burnout can be fatal if not checked. What can you do about it? Evaluate your work and discuss specific concerns with your supervisor, try a relaxing activity(yoga, meditation, deep breathing), do some exercise, get some rest, sleep and practice mindfulness. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a professional. I recommend our clinic.