Burnout? Learn about it and make sure to avoid it!
The term 'burnout' is an accurate description of complete exhaustion of body and mind, it can be thought of as pressing on the 'emergency brake'. A delayed response can cause depression. What are the early symptoms and what treatment methods are available?
Occupational burnout is a complete lack of energy, whether physical, emotional or mental.Those who suffer from burnout for professional reasons have a feeling of having nothing to do or feel empty and lacking in energy, and eventually become completely exhausted.It can be passed on to anyone.Some research suggests that 7 per cent of employees suffer from this condition, although this figure may change.Although the term has been in common use since the 1970s, it was only listed in the International Classification of Diseases in May 2019, which defines it as "a syndrome resulting from chronic stress at work that has not been successfully treated"
In other words, burnout is a stress-induced disorder that develops slowly and carries a high risk of severe exhaustion, whether physical, emotional or psychological, and can lead to depression.Occupational burnout is also associated with various physical symptoms, such as high blood pressure or lung disease, according to a study by the University Hospital in Zurich. Therefore, it is important to recognise the first signs of occupational burnout and address them quickly
Causes of occupational burnout
Occupational burnout is mainly caused by excessive work pressure, including unpaid work such as caring for relatives or family work.It's not just about the number of working hours; in addition, a poor and hostile work environment, harassment, excessive stress or fear of losing the job, and personal stress can also play a role. Personal requirements are crucial, especially for idealistic and motivated people
Work-related risk factors
High workload / external pressure - time pressure - monotonous routine work / lack of individual autonomy - lack of recognition and support - interpersonal conflicts in the workplace - multiple family and professional burdens
Personal risk factors
High self-esteem requirements and strong commitment to productivity - Perfectionism - Desire to please others and look for hope - Inability to say no - Few or no compensatory activities - Lack of relaxation
Symptoms of burnout
Burnout does not happen overnight.It often starts with overzealous idealism and a refusal to recognise that we are obsolete. Burnout becomes the norm, and the first signs of burnout are ignored. Symptoms include:Sleep disturbances, headaches, muscle tension and back pain. Social distancing and silent resignation at work (this is a situation where, instead of quitting, employees decide to stay in their jobs with minimal tasks) are also warning signs. A person can end up feeling completely overwhelmed, leading to depression
Here are some examples of these symptoms
Increasing lack of professional and personal motivation, decreased interest in everything - Decreased mental performance, trouble concentrating - Cynicism and avoidance of work - Difficulty relaxing during leisure time Sleep disturbances, constant fatigue - Loss of appetite Headaches and back pain - Dizziness and heart palpitations - Nervousness and fear, inner emptiness - Gastrointestinal issues - Increased sensitivity to infections - Tinnitus - Depression caused by burnout
Stages in the development of burnout
Burnout develops in stages, although they cannot be strictly categorised as each individual experiences burnout differently.Individual stages may be ignored or occur in a different order.According to sources, there are models consisting of 3, 5, 7 or 12 stages, although most do not fundamentally conflict.Although the models are scientifically unproven, they provide important information about the possible development of burnout and the promotion of self-reflection (or introspection). One of the most frequently cited models is that of Herbert Freudenberg, a leading researcher of "burnout": In collaboration with Jill North, in 1992, he developed a qualitative model.
It consists of 12 stages
Commitment to prove one's worth:Strong commitment, euphoria, self-demands beyond personal boundaries.
Increased effort: Perfectionism, individuals endeavour to do everything on their own and quickly.
Neglect of personal needs: Prioritising work over everything while personal needs take second place.
Suppressing conflicts and needs: When the first faults begin to appear, they are ignored, just as the first physical symptoms are ignored. Conflicts may arise, especially in interpersonal relationships, for example in -
Partnerships Reinterpretation of values: Work becomes prioritised, social relationships and previous priorities are seen as a burden.
Rejection of problems: Individuals become increasingly aggressive. Any overload is systematically rejected -
Withdrawal: Individuals withdraw and lose hope. They notice their performance decreases, and some seek comfort or distraction in addictive substances.
Behaviour change: Significant changes in behaviour, where anxious friends are soothed and any form of criticism is rejected.
Depersonalisation: Individuals feel disconnected from their body, mind and feelings. Their own lives become worthless.
Inner emptiness: Those affected feel useless, empty and exhausted. Panic attacks and panic attacks may occur.
Depression: Complete lack of dynamism and apathy; sufferers feel exhausted and hopeless.
Total exhaustion: In addition to psychological depression, physical illnesses may also occur. Suicidal thoughts may arise.
Note: Occupational burnout is not a disease in itself, but a condition that increases the risk of disease
