Burnout can occur for a variety of reasons, and even the smallest of things can tip a person over the edge and down a stress spiral. Not only is your mental health at risk here, but your physical health takes a hit too; stress can have all kinds of consequences on the body, and some people can even end up with lifelong illnesses as a result.
And if you’re approaching a burnt-out state, the first thing to do is accept it. The second thing to do is then work out what brought it on. If you know the cause, you can find the solution. As such, here are a couple of things to think about when you’re feeling that creeping sense of burnout.
Maybe it’s Your Job?
Whether you have a ‘normal’ 9 to 5 or you make your own hours, your job can lead to burnout faster than anything else.
When both your mind and body are on the go, with less break time in between shifts than you’d really like, you’re never going to quite get the chance to recover your energy or passion.
Burnout should always be taken seriously in a professional setting. If you’re your own boss, pay attention to what your body is telling you and take a break!
If you’re employed by someone else, see what you’ll need to do to take time off. Read over your contract, check with HR (if there is one), and speak to a doctor.
Or Your Caring Responsibilities?
Spending time with your family is usually a lovely thing. But every so often, the expectations of being the responsible one can get on top of you. If you’re a parent, being a 24/7 helpline for your kids is rough! It’s OK to acknowledge that, and it’s OK to say you need a break from it too.
Even if you’re not a parent, you may have elderly parents in need of your support. You want to give back to them as much as possible now that your caring roles have effectively switched, but the pressure of living your own life and being there for two of the most important people within it can really pile on.
Does that sound like a situation you could be dealing with? Then it’s time to think about getting a helping hand, even if you’re not quite on the verge of burnout yet. You could be soon, and there’s no saying it won’t happen again and again if you don’t make a change now.
There are various support options out there for elders with care needs. Assisted Living is one, where elderly people can both retain their independence while also having someone around at all times. Another is thinking about home care, which ensures your loved ones can stay in their own familiar space; you just won’t have to wear yourself out too.
Approaching burnout? If these reasons are the cause, let’s do something to stop it in its tracks.
