Burnout is a state of emotional and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It can occur when you feel overwhelmed and unable to meet constant demands. Because burnout doesn't happen overnight - and it's difficult to fight once you're in the middle of it - it's important to recognise the early signs of burnout.
If you can identify with a multiple number of the checklist signs you should think about lifestyle changes that can help to reduce some of the stress and tension in your life.
Physical
- Frequent headaches
- Change in appetite
- Feelings of exhaustion or fatigue
- Insomnia
- Muscle aches or general aches and pains
- Constantly unwell
- Stomach problems
- Shortness of breath
- Skin complaints
Emotional
- Anxious
- Frustrated
- Discouraged
- Touchy and irritable
- Bad tempered
- Easily moved to tears
- Marked sadness
- Screaming and shouting
- Unwarrantedly suspicious and paranoid
- Lethargic
Spiritual
- Emptiness
- Loss of meaning
- Doubt (of self and/or life)
- Need to prove yourself
- Lack of forgiveness (from others and/or for others)
Mental
- Dull senses
- Forgetfulness
- Confusion
- Poor concentration
- Negative attitude
- Depression
Relational
- Isolation
- Resentment
- Distrust
- Loneliness
- Hiding
Work-related symptoms
- Loss of interest in and commitment to work
- Lack of job satisfaction
- Failure to observe punctuality and neglect of duties
- Feelings of inadequacy, helplessness and guilt
- A loss of confidence and diminished self-esteem
- A loss of quality in performance of work. Stressed out people often work harder, but accomplish less
- Deteriorating relationships with colleagues
- An increased use of alcohol or drugs in order to cope at home or at work
- A decision to leave your job or profession
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