Stress and burnout are two common mental health conditions that can have a significant impact on our physical and emotional well-being.
Stress is a feeling of physical or emotional tension that can be caused by a variety of factors, such as work, relationships, finances, and health concerns.
Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress.
Symptoms of Burnout and Stress
The symptoms of burnout and stress can vary from person to person, but some common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Headaches
- Muscle tension
- Sleep problems
- Loss of appetite
- Weight gain or loss
- Social withdrawal
Causes of Burnout and Stress
Burnout and stress can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Work-related stress: Long hours, heavy workload, unrealistic deadlines, and lack of control over one’s work can all contribute to work-related stress.
- Relationship stress: Conflict with loved ones, financial problems, and health concerns can all contribute to relationship stress.
- Financial stress: Money worries can be a major source of stress for many people.
- Health concerns: Chronic health conditions, such as pain, fatigue, and anxiety, can also contribute to stress.
Effects of Burnout and Stress
Burnout and stress can have a significant impact on our physical and emotional well-being. Some of the effects of burnout and stress include:
- Reduced productivity
- Increased absenteeism
- Increased health care costs
- Decreased job satisfaction
- Increased risk of accidents
- Increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic health conditions
- Increased risk of depression and anxiety
- Increased risk of suicide
How to Avoid Burnout and Stress
There are a number of practical things we can do to prevent burnout and stress, including:
- – Set realistic goals: Don’t overload yourself with too much work or too many commitments.
- – Take breaks: Schedule regular breaks throughout the day to relax and recharge.
- – Exercise: Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and improve your mood.
- – Get enough sleep: When you’re well-rested, you’re better able to cope with stress.
- – Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet gives you the energy you need to cope with stress.
- – Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can worsen stress symptoms.
- – Talk to someone: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to a friend, family member, therapist, or other trusted person.
Coping with Burnout and Stress
If you’re already experiencing burnout or stress, there are a number of things you can do to cope, including the above
- – Take a longer break: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a break from work or other activities that are causing you stress.
- – Talk to someone: Talk to a friend, family member, therapist, or other trusted person about how you’re feeling.
- – Practice relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, can help you reduce stress.
- – Seek professional help: If you’re struggling to cope with burnout or stress, seek professional help from a therapist or counsellor.
- – Engage in mindfulness interventions: Practice catching yourself in moments with negative feelings or thoughts, explore modes of expressing yourself in healthy manners such as journalling, art or music expressions, play or through movements.
Looking to get support for stress and/or burnout that you are currently experiencing? Contact us for a non-obligatory initial consultation with our therapist today.
References
- American Psychological Association. (2022, January 24). Special Issue: Burnout. Monitor on Psychology, 53(1).
- World Health Organization. (2019). International Classification of Diseases 11. Geneva: World Health Organization.