Work-Related Burnout
About Work-Related Burnout
I’m sure you’ve heard the word “burnout” before. People use it a lot in conversation to refer to periods of being stressed and overwhelmed by any number of things, from family or romantic relationships, managing medical situations, or work. Work-related burnout is unfortunately quite common, with 57% of US employees reporting experiencing the negative impacts of workplace stress typically associated with burnout (American Psychological Association, 2023).
What is Work-Related Burnout
Work-related burnout is not a diagnosis that can be formally assessed for, like major depressive disorder or PTSD. Nonetheless, it can significantly impact functioning both at work and outside of work. Some common signs and symptoms may include:
· Feeling overwhelmed at work
· Emotional exhaustion
· Feeling a sense of powerlessness regarding your employment
· Wanting to isolate from coworkers or supervisors
· Considering quitting
· Experiencing less interest, passion, or motivation at work
· Having difficulty concentrating
· Issues with sleep
· Feeling stressed, anxious, and experiencing dread about work even when not at work
The Impact of Work-Related Burnout
Work-related burnout can have far-reaching effects, including: attendance issues, job dissatisfaction, heart disease, headaches, musculoskeletal pain, depression, insomnia, and general distress (Salvagioni et al., 2017). With so many diverse sequelae, we can see the importance of addressing work-related burnout, not just for our work, but also for our health, emotional well-being, and even relationships.
What Do You Do for Work-Related Burnout?
There are several strategies that therapists may use to help clients navigating work-related burnout. The first and most important part of addressing work-related burnout is a thorough assessment to understand if there are other diagnoses contributing to the burnout (for instance, an anxiety disorder, pre-existing depression, etc.) and a better understanding of the nature of the burnout. Once a client and clinician can work together to understand what is contributing to the work-related burnout, a treatment plan can be developed. This may incorporate treatment for any pre-existing issues as well as the burnout. Once the plan is developed, the work begins!
Some Components of Work-Related Burnout Treatment
Although there is no one-size-fits-all for issues such as burnout, some key components of therapy to address this issue may involve:
· Setting limits and boundaries where possible
· Engaging in self-care (such as reading a good book, having our favorite comfort foods, listening to relaxing music, etc.)
· Prioritizing other aspects of our life, such as relationships, leisure activities, etc.
· Practicing mindfulness both at work and outside of work
· Ensuring maintenance of helpful strategies
The Way Forward
Work-related burnout can have long-term effects and can cause significant distress. As we spend so much of our lives at work, it is particularly important to consider addressing burnout and preventing a recurrence.
While work-related burnout can feel overwhelming, there can be hope for positive change. By taking small steps and implementing supportive strategies, we can work to move toward a healthier relationship with our work and rediscover our sense of purpose and energy.
References
Salvagioni, D. A. J., Melanda, F. N., Mesas, A. E., González, A. D., Gabani, F. L., & de Andrade, S. M. (2017). Physical, psychological and occupational consequences of job burnout: A systematic review of prospective studies. PLoS ONE, 12(10), Article e0185781. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0185781
American Psychological Association. (2023). 2023 work in America survey: Workplaces as engines of psychological health and well-being.
