Burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Burnout can affect anyone, especially those working in high-pressure environments such as the workplace.
It is essential to be aware of the signs of burnout and take necessary steps to prevent it. In this article, we will discuss the different symptoms of burnout to watch out for in the workplace.
Decreased Productivity
One of the most common symptoms of burnout is a decrease in productivity. Burnout can result in reduced work output, procrastination, and increased work errors.
If you find yourself struggling to keep up with your regular workloads and deadlines, it may be a sign of burnout.
Chronic Fatigue
Burnout can cause chronic fatigue, which can make it challenging to complete even the simplest tasks. The feeling of exhaustion may impact the quality of your work and lead to decreased motivation.
Chronic fatigue caused by burnout is different from being tired from a lack of sleep, and it can be challenging to shake off even after a good night’s rest.
Increased Irritability
Burnout can cause an increase in irritability, making it difficult to work as part of a team or communicate with others at work. You may find yourself becoming easily agitated or reacting negatively to constructive criticism.
Burnout can cause you to become defensive, which can create unnecessary conflicts with colleagues and further exacerbate the situation.
Physical Symptoms
Burnout doesn’t just affect your mental and emotional wellbeing; it can also result in physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and chronic pain.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult your doctor to rule out any underlying medical issues.
Loss of Passion
Another common symptom of burnout is losing the passion you once had for your job. You may find that you no longer enjoy the work you do, or it doesn’t provide you with the same level of satisfaction or fulfillment it once did.
This lack of passion can make it even more challenging to combat burnout and maintain motivation at work.
Withdrawal from Social Activities
People experiencing burnout may withdraw from social activities, whether it be work-related events or personal gatherings. You may feel like you don’t have the energy or motivation to attend these activities.
However, withdrawal can further isolate you and exacerbate the symptoms of burnout.
Insomnia
Burnout can cause many sleep-related issues, one of which is insomnia. People with burnout often find themselves having difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early.
The lack of quality sleep can exacerbate other symptoms of burnout, such as irritability and lack of motivation, and can negatively affect your overall health and wellbeing.
Eating Disorders
Burnout can lead to many unhealthy behaviors, such as overeating or not eating enough. Emotional eating tends to be a common symptom of burnout, and it can lead to unhealthy weight gain and other related medical conditions.
Difficulty Concentrating
Burnout can make it challenging to focus on a task, complete it thoroughly, and pay attention to details. If you find yourself zoning out frequently or having difficulty concentrating, it may be a sign of burnout.
Lack of Work-Life Balance
People experiencing burnout often feel like they don’t have a healthy work-life balance. They may find themselves working long hours, consistently checking emails after work hours or even working on weekends.
This lack of work-life balance can lead to burnout and negatively impact your personal life.
Conclusion
There are numerous symptoms of burnout to watch out for in the workplace. Burnout can have a significant impact on your wellbeing, both physically and emotionally.
The best way to combat burnout is to be aware of the signs, take necessary steps to prevent it, and prioritize self-care. Seek help from a healthcare professional or communicate with your employer about the ways to achieve a healthy work-life balance.