Burnout is more common now than pre-pandemic:

While burnout is not a new mental and physical phenomenon, It does seem to be more prevalent in adults and teens post-COVID. In fact, over 40 percent of the global workforce feels burned out, according to surveys in both Forbes magazine and Aflac insurance. Healthcare workers report a higher incidence of burnout, nearly 55%.

What is burnout?

Burnout is characterized by a combination of symptoms related to stress. These stressors can come from work, home, parenting, or even personal relationships. Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated stress.

What causes burnout?

There are different causes of burnout, and the causes often depend on the situation. It can vary from work, to caregiving, to keeping up with daily life. Issues that we all seem to be facing post-pandemic that can contribute to burnout include:

  • The economy, inflation, stock market ups and downs
  • Too much or too little to do
  • Lack of control
  • Lack of support
  • Taking on too many tasks
  • Constant barrage of bad news
  • Toxic friends or coworkers

What are the symptoms of burnout?

Burnout symptoms can vary per individual, and even per situation. The most common burnout symptoms may include:

  • Physical exhaustion
  • Lack of energy
  • Inability to focus
  • Trouble getting started with simple tasks
  • Lack of motivation
  • Loss of patience with coworkers or family members
  • Feeling unsatisfied after completing a task
  • Doubt in your own skills and ability
  • Feeling of being alone or misunderstood

Concerning physical and mental signs of burnout:

  • Depression
  • Not sleeping, extreme insomnia
  • Using alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism
  • Severe stomach pain
  • Headaches
  • Bowel problems or digestive issues
  • Other physical issues without a known cause
  • Extreme weight gain or weight loss
  • Feelings of inadequacy
  • Suicidal thoughts or ideation

What can I do about burnout?

The very best thing you can do to help cope with burnout is to get help and support. Dr. Kathleen Yen has extensive experience in helping patients suffering with burnout. She can help Identify the type of burnout you are suffering, and help you form an action plan to overcome it. Dr. Yen Will give you tools to help cope with current burnout, as well as possible future burnout. Together you can form a plan that may include:

  • Identifying your support system
  • Creating a better work/life balance
  • Learning to say no
  • Setting appropriate expectations
  • Self care, down-time, and guilt-free vacations

For more information on burnout and how to deal with it, please contact the office of Dr. Kathleen Yen, Adult Psychiatrist serving Bellaire, West University and the Houston, Texas areas.