Burnout is a state of physical or emotional exhaustion that can lead to a sense of reduced accomplishment or lack of motivation.
Severe burnout can lead to more serious mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Luckily, there are ways to avoid and escape burnout and continue doing great work!
There are a few signs that indicate you may be feeling burnt out such as becoming cynical or critical at work, insomnia, excessive stress, finding it hard to concentrate or feeling disillusioned about your job etc. and many things could be the root of the issue such as exhaustion, boredom, lack of social support or work-life imbalance.
1. Talk to your peers
It is important to voice your concerns and feelings to your peers (who may also be experiencing similar burnout). This allows you to share and receive advice on how to handle or solve this issue, in addition to this being a chance to sort out workload concerns perhaps with supervisors or management.
2. Try taking your mind off of work
It can even be exhausting having your work and responsibilities constantly on your mind. Completely escaping momentarily through exercise, socialising or doing something you enjoy, have the ability to transport your mindset and give your mind a rest. It is important to do this regularly to give yourself a break, however not too often in order to avoid falling behind and causing more stress.
3. Sleep
Sleep is a powerful tool the human body can do to heal itself and repair the mind. Sleep helps with your emotional regulation making stress and anxiety easier to manage. It allows the body to enter a state of relaxation which is important at times when you’re feeling overly stressed or tired.
In summary, burnout is a common thing to experience after you have been working hard, bored, overwhelmed or even just tired. However, these things and more can help you minimise or eradicate burnout and its effects.