Burnout
A burnout is characterized by physical, psychological and social complaints that are accompanied by a reduced sense of self-esteem at work.
It shows many similarities with depression . But in the event of a burnout, you still look forward to doing fun things outside the work environment.
What are the symptoms?
- Physical complaints : You have difficulty falling asleep and have little or no energy. And you suffer from dizziness, palpitations, headaches and stomach and intestinal problems.
- Psychological complaints : You feel listless, frustrated, anxious. Your concentration and self-confidence decrease. And you are no longer motivated at work.
- Social complaints : You react indifferently, cynically or aggressively. You make more mistakes and isolate yourself more quickly. Moreover, you will smoke, use alcohol or drugs more.
What is the cause?
A burnout is always the result of long-term overload . It is a clear signal from your body that you have gone too far beyond your limits for too long.
Yet some people are more susceptible to it than others. The causes lie in:
- Your working environment : high workload, too little variation or autonomy in your work, difficult relationship with colleagues or manager, emotionally or physically taxing work.
- Your personality : perfectionist, loyal, you feel strongly committed to your work, quickly say 'yes', do not easily ask for help.
What can you do yourself?
Prevention is better than cure. How do you do that in the event of a burnout?
- You as an employee: make a choice in your tasks, talk about your concerns or ask for help and take 'me-time' in time
- Your working environment : make time for each other by taking a break from time to time, appreciate and compliment your team, dare to be vulnerable by identifying signals honestly and provide honest feedback.
With a burnout you can slowly but surely find a balance again to deal with everyday stress. Get started with these tips:
- Choose yourself : Stop ignoring your own needs and take full care of yourself.
- Accept help : The support of those around you is important to get out of your isolation.
- Build energy : Think about activities you enjoy and do them.
- Exercise : Even if you feel tired, try to walk or cycle every day.
- Eat healthy : Your body needs the energy from healthy food.
- Relax : You can choose breathing exercises, relaxation exercises or yoga.
- Rest and sleep : Go to bed on time and take a nap if you need it.
- Worry less : Try to consciously break it. Write down what you're worried about and try to solve it in small steps.
- Be assertive : Learn to say 'no' in time and to indicate your own boundaries.
When should you see a doctor?
Do you recognize the above symptoms in yourself? Then consult your doctor. They will ask you questions about your work, state of mind and (physical) complaints. Your doctor will help you based on this. Treatment may consist of stress management, medication or psychotherapy.
At your workplace you can discuss with the occupational physician how your tasks can be adjusted.
A burnout is always the result of long-term overload. It is a clear signal from your body
Elise Rummens
Elise Rummens | prevention doctor CM
Elise is our family doctor. Her hobbyhorse when it comes to health is exercise. That's why you see her jumping, flying, diving, falling and getting up again on Tuesday evenings. Then she has her weekly parkour training.
Slowly but surely you can find balance again
