This state of physical and mental exhaustion related to work has become an increasingly common problem.
But do you know what burnout is? Discover its symptoms, consequences, and strategies for preventing and dealing with this problem.
In today's fast-paced society, where work and responsibilities consume a large portion of our time and energy, burnout has become an increasingly common problem worldwide. It can affect people of all ages, across various professions, and is not limited to specific job titles. Since 2019, the WHO – World Health Organization – recognises burnout as a disease.
According to Small Business Prices [https://smallbusinessprices.co.uk/european-employee-burnout/, who carried out the calculations based on each country's world happiness index, average annual salary, and weekly working hours, Portugal is, of the
26 analysed in the study, the country where most workers suffer or are at risk of suffering from burnout.
O que é o burnout?
Burnout is a prolonged and chronic response to work-related stress. It is a condition
characterised by a state of physical and mental exhaustion, depersonalisation (feelings of detachment
emotional in relation to work and others) and decreased professional achievement.
It is important to note that burnout is directly related to the work environment and should not be confused with other mental health issues such as depression.
According to the STADA Health Report 2022 [https://www.stada.com/media/health-reports/stada health-report-2022but more than half of Portuguese people say they have already suffered or are close to suffering from burnout.
Burnout symptoms
- Persistent physical and mental exhaustion: Feeling constantly tired, both physically and mentally, even after periods of adequate rest – such as holidays or weekends.
- Demotivation and lack of fulfillment Loss of interest and motivation in relation to work, feelings of ineffectiveness and lack of satisfaction with professional achievements.
- Increased irritability and social isolation: A tendency to feel more irritated and impatient with colleagues, friends, and family. Furthermore, social isolation may be a response to emotional overload.
- Decrease in performance and productivity Difficulty maintaining concentration, low performance, and a drop in productivity.
- Physical and emotional health problems: Burnout can manifest as frequent headaches, gastrointestinal problems, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression.
Consequences of burnout
Burnout doesn't just affect professional life, but also has significant consequences for physical, mental health, and personal relationships. Some of the negative effects of burnout include:
- Increased risk of health problems: Chronic exhaustion can lead to a weakened immune system, increasing susceptibility to physical and mental illnesses, such as cardiovascular disease and depression.
- Low productivity and performance: The physical and mental exhaustion resulting from burnout negatively impacts the ability to perform tasks efficiently, decreasing productivity.
- Relationship burnout Burnout can affect personal relationships, causing emotional distance and a lack of energy to interact with family and friends.
- Dissatisfaction and lack of fulfillment A lack of job satisfaction can lead to a decrease in the sense of personal and professional achievement.
Prevention and combat strategies
The prevention of burnout is essential for maintaining healthy mental health and a proper balance between
Work and personal life.
- Establish healthy boundaries Set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Prioritise time for rest, leisure activities and meaningful relationships.
- Be aware of your emotions and needs. Identify the early signs of burnout and stress and take steps to look after yourself.
- Seek support: Don't be afraid to ask for help. Talk to a friend, a trusted colleague, or a mental health professional. Sharing your concerns can help alleviate stress.
- Establish a healthy routine: Prioritise self-care, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep.
- Learn effective management techniques: such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing, to help reduce work-related stress.
Burnout is an exhaustive syndrome that affects more and more people worldwide. Recognising the early signs, seeking support, and implementing prevention strategies are crucial steps to avoid this condition and preserve your mental health and well-being.
Remember that taking care of yourself is not a luxury, but a necessity for a balanced and healthy life. Invest in your own well-being and establish a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout.