According to the APA Dictionary of Psychology, burnout is defined as “physical, emotional or mental exhaustion, accompanied by decreased motivation, lowered performance and negative attitudes towards oneself and others.”
Burnout is a type of exhaustion that can happen when you face prolonged stress that eventually results in severe physical, mental, and emotional fatigue.
You may not realize you’ve hit burnout until it’s too late when you’ve crossed the line between “really tired” and “too exhausted to function.” Alternatively, you might be the type of personality who likes to stay busy, and might not recognize when you’re doing too much.
What Does Burnout Mean?
Burnout is a reaction to prolonged or chronic job stress. It is characterized by three main dimensions:
- exhaustion,
- cynicism (less identification with the job),
- and feelings of reduced professional ability.
More simply put, if you feel exhausted, start to hate your job, and begin to feel less capable at work, you are showing signs of burnout.2
Signs of burnout
Burnout looks different for everyone, although it can affect you physically, mentally and emotionally.
Physical Burnout Symptoms
- Gastrointestinal problems
- High blood pressure
- Poor immune function (getting sick more often)
- Reoccurring headaches
- Sleep issues
Mental Burnout Symptoms
- Concentration issues
- Depressed mood
- Feeling worthless
- Loss of interest or pleasure
- Suicidal ideation
- Loss of motivation
- Feeling detached or alone in the world
- Sense of failure
- Cynicism
- Helpless ness
Behavioural signs
- Reduced performance in everyday tasks
- Withdrawal or isolation
- Procrastination
- Outbursts
- Using substances to cope.
Resources
Maslach C, Leiter MP. Understanding the burnout experience: Recent research and its implications for psychiatry. World Psychiatry. 2016;15(2):103–111. doi:10.1002/wps.20311
https://www.darlingdowns.health.qld.gov.au/about-us/our-stories/feature-articles/signs-you-might-be-experiencing-a-burnout-and-how-to-regain-balance-in-your-life
This post is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered therapy. This blog is only for informational and educational purposes and should not be considered therapy or any form of treatment. We are not able to respond to specific questions or comments about personal situations, appropriate diagnosis or treatment, or otherwise provide any clinical opinions. If you think you need immediate assistance, call your local doctor/psychologist or psychiatrist or the SADAG Mental Health Line on 011 234 4837. If necessary, please phone the Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 567 567 or sms 31393.