Are you feeling empty, as if all emotions, whether sadness or happiness, have drained away? Do you feel mentally exhausted, too worn out to care about anything? Do you feel hopeless and helpless, struggling to find a reason to wake up each day? These could be signs of burnout, which requires proper diagnosis, care, and management.
Those going through burnout often lose hope that things will improve. While excessive stress can feel like you’re overwhelmed by responsibilities, burnout feels like being completely drained. Unlike stress, which is often noticeable, burnout can creep up on you unnoticed.
To understand burnout and why it is important to pay heed to its signs, OnlyMyHealth interacted with Priyanka Kapoor, Psychologist and Psychotherapist, Mumbai. According to Kapoor, burnout is more than just feeling tired or stressed. It's a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, typically from work or other demanding roles.
The Subtle Onset of Burnout
Burnout doesn't happen overnight. It gradually creeps in, often starting with subtle signs that can be easy to dismiss. Kapoor says, “At first, you might feel a bit more tired than usual or find yourself losing interest in activities you once enjoyed. As burnout progresses, these feelings intensify, leading to a state of chronic exhaustion, cynicism, and detachment from work or personal responsibilities.”
Ignoring these early signs can cause serious consequences. Kapoor said, “The longer burnout is left unaddressed, the harder it becomes to recover. The initial fatigue can escalate into serious physical and mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and even chronic conditions like heart disease.”
Recognising the Signs
Burnout manifests in various ways, affecting your body, emotions, and behaviour. Some common signs listed by Kapoor include:
Physical Symptoms
Chronic fatigue, frequent headaches, muscle pain, and changes in sleep patterns are common physical indicators of burnout. You may also notice a decline in your immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses.
Emotional Symptoms
Burnout often leads to feelings of helplessness, cynicism, and detachment. You might feel overwhelmed by even the smallest tasks, lose motivation, and experience a general sense of dissatisfaction with life.
Behavioural Symptoms
Changes in behaviour, such as withdrawing from social activities, increased irritability, and a decline in performance at work, are also common signs of burnout. You might find yourself procrastinating more, missing deadlines, or making mistakes you wouldn't usually make.
Why You Shouldn't Ignore Burnout
Ignoring burnout can have serious consequences on your health, relationships, and career. Here are some reasons why paying attention to the signs of burnout is essential:
Health Consequences
Burnout takes a significant toll on your physical and mental health. According to Kapoor, prolonged stress can lead to chronic health issues, such as cardiovascular problems, digestive disorders, and a weakened immune system. Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety are also closely linked to burnout, making it a critical issue to address.
Impact on Relationships
Kapoor notes, “Burnout doesn't just affect you; it impacts those around you as well. When you're burned out, you're more likely to withdraw from social interactions, become irritable, and struggle to maintain healthy relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.”
Career Implications
“In the workplace, burnout can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and a higher likelihood of making errors,” said Kapoor. This not only affects your performance but can also jeopardise your career progression and job security.
Also read: What Is Burnout Due To Stress & How To Cope With It, Expert Explains
Taking Action
Preventing and managing burnout requires a proactive approach. Here are some steps you can take:
Prioritise Self-Care
Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones. “Adequate sleep, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity are crucial for maintaining your well-being,” Kapoor recommended.
Set Boundaries
Learn to say no when necessary and set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Kapoor advises to avoid overcommitting yourself, and make sure to take breaks during the day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Seek Support
Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you're struggling with burnout. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional can provide you with the support you need to manage your stress and regain your balance.
Conclusion
Burnout is a serious issue that should not be ignored. By recognizing the signs early and taking steps to address them, you can protect your health, maintain your relationships, and ensure long-term success in your personal and professional life. Paying heed to burnout is not just about preventing exhaustion—it's about safeguarding your overall well-being.