Burnout is definitely going around, and chances are you’ve either faced it or have come very close. For those lucky few who may not be sure as to what I’m referring to, burnout (usually associated with work) is when you feel emotionally, physically and mentally exhausted due to chronic stress.
It can be hard to pinpoint where burnout even begins, but it’s so easy to accumulate stress that can lead to burnout. Even during this pandemic, many of us are being told to work from home and keep up with eight-hour workdays under the extreme stress of the fact that our entire world is being affected by a health crisis. Yes, that alone can be stressful enough, and we are living in it.
It’s far too easy to suggest things to do to get back to normal after facing burnout, but things don’t exactly work that way. You can do all of the things you’re supposed to do to take care of yourself and de-stress and still come face-to-face with burnout.
The Stress of Being Stressed
Just thinking about stress can cause stress. You’d be surprised to know that being stressed isn’t all about negativity. It’s important to look into yourself and what you need in order to take care of yourself. You also need to focus on enhancing your mental wellbeing because burnout affects our mental health more than you may think.
In case you missed it, even Arianna Huffington admitted to collapsing at work from mental exhaustion and breaking her cheekbone. Could this be you? Honestly, yes, maybe. If you are feeling burnout coming on, and can’t behave proactively to treat it, chances are you may share a similar story to this.
Burnout can increase depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It could increase your panic attacks, or even cause them for the first time. It might cause you to feel lost. Yes, it will throw you off. However, as Arianna Huffington has shown us, you can bounce back and come back stronger.
How to Fix It
What can you do to combat burnout? First, take it easy. Why are you putting all of this pressure on yourself? Frankly, it’s only hurting you. Be realistic with your feelings and think about where you are comfortable in your life. Focus on those positive areas.
It’s OK if you need to talk to someone. It’s also OK to ask for help, or ask for alone time while sheltering in place. It’s so simple to say, “Hey, we’re all at home doing nothing, so it’s time to do all of the things.” However, we are all under a lot more stress at the moment and throwing expectations on top of it is very unhelpful.
It’s definitely important to note that you do not have to come out of the quarantine richer, skinnier, smarter—and don’t ever let someone convince you otherwise. Take this time to do things that make you feel good and help you unwind. Indulge yourself when you have the time and don’t let anyone’s opinions dictate what feels good to you.
The best way to prevent burnout is to be proactive with your self-care. You need to have your own back, and make the time to actively care for yourself.
Featured Image via Jessalynn Forde’s Home Tour
Just a friendly disclaimer and reminder that this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
