Burnout can be defined as complete emotional and mental exhaustion and fatigue caused by stress and overload.
Millions of people around the world are suffering from burnout and it has now been listed as a workplace phenomenon by the World Health Organization (WHO).
While it is not classified as an illness or health condition, it is included in the WHO’s 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as an “occupational phenomenon,” for which people contact health services. ICD-11 describes it as “a syndrome conceptualised as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed” and which is characterised by “feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion,” “increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one’s job,” and “reduced professional efficacy.”
Burnout can happen to anyone, especially when you are overworked and under-compensated. Under-compensation doesn’t necessarily have to do with remuneration but rather with giving yourself a break and finding a work-life balance. .
People often work themselves to a point of mental and physical exhaustion where they cease to be productive.
If you are suffering from burnout, you might experience some of the following symptoms:
● Extreme tiredness and fatigue
● Frequent headaches
● Changes in appetite/sleep patterns
● Frequent illness
So, what’s the solution to burnout? Not medication and not psychotherapy. It’s about taking a much needed break from work and minimising the amount of stress in your life.
Here are some things you can do to minimise burnout:
● Take a vacation: We are given vacation days for a reason and it is exactly to avoid work place burnout. Do not let your vacation days pile up. When you have them, take them. Weneed at least two vacations a year away fromwork.When we return to work, we should be refreshed, both mentally and physically.
● Get a massage: Massages relax your mind, body and soul. Treat yourself once a month.
● Massages will also help you sleep better.
● Reduce your caffeine intake: Workaholics tend to overdose on caffeine. This means that your brain keeps going even when you need a break. Try sipping on a glass of wine, instead (after work, of course).
● Try a yoga or meditation class: Any relaxation exercise will help soothe mind body and soul. It will also teach you patience and give you peace of mind.
Remember that having a good work-life balance is key to avoiding burnout and to maintaining one’s sanity.
