Work, Stress, and Burnout

What is burnout?

While burnout is not currently classified as a medical condition, it is classified as an occupation phenomenon.  The World Health Organization defines burnout as “a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.  It is characterized by three dimensions:

  • 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.”

Causes of burnout

Burnout can happen to anyone and there are usually multiple causes.  According to this list from Asana, here are some examples:

  • Little to no control over your workload.
  • Little to no recognition of a job well done.
  • Unclear job expectations.
  • Unreasonable or overly demanding job expectations.
  • High-pressure work environments.
  • Too much work-specifically when it leads to less time to do the things you enjoy outside of work.

Symptoms

If you think you may be experiencing burnout, start with these questions that the Mayo Clinic came up addressing some of the physical, mental and emotional symptoms:

  • Have you become cynical or critical at work?
  • Do you drag yourself to work and have trouble getting started?
  • Have you become irritable or impatient with co-workers, customers or clients?
  • Do you lack the energy to be consistently productive?
  • Do you find it hard to concentrate?
  • Do you lack satisfaction from your achievements?
  • Do you feel disillusioned about your job?
  • Are you using food, drugs or alcohol to feel better or to simply not feel?
  • Have your sleep habits changed?
  • Are you troubled by unexplained physical complaints?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you might be experiencing job burnout. Reach out to Tabono by calling 513-846-5283 or via our Contact Us page to be matched with one of our licensed therapists.  We look forward to hearing from you soon!

References:

/by