Burnout develops as a result of chronic exposure to stress as a result of a long-term perceived inability to meet situational demands.
According to the World Health Organization, burnout is a syndrome resulting from workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It’s characterized by three dimensions: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, increased mental distance from one’s job or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one’s job, and reduced professional efficacy.
Don’t confuse burnout with stress, though, as they are distinct experiences. Stress often arises from an excess of obligations and tasks, overwhelming schedules, and prolonged working hours. On the other hand, burnout manifests as a sense of deficiency — a lack of drive, energy, and emotional investment.
The 5 stages of burnout
#1 Honeymoon Phase: high job satisfactions, commitment, energy and creativity
#2 Onset of Stress: Optimism waning, common stress symptoms
#3 Chronic Stress: A marked change in one’s stress levels, more intense symptoms
#4 Burnout: Symptoms become critical, increasingly difficult to cope
#5 Habitual Burnout: Significant ongoing mental and physical problems
10 basic tips to bounce back stronger
- Set boundaries
- Learn to say NO
- Exercise regularly
- Reward yourself for achieving goals
- Eat a balanced diet
- Take time off
- Prioritize self-care
- Switch up your work environment
- Slow down and take breaks
- Create a schedule that fits your needs
Keep in mind that..
- Anyone exposed to chronically stressful conditions can experience burnout
- Some occupations are more vulnerable than others to the effects of burnout
- The more you rest well, the more you are able to perform well consistently
Participate in our SEAFiT poll at https://safety4sea.com/poll/
BUILDING RESILIENCE: Read in this series
