With the Coronavirus pandemic recently hitting the one-year mark, many have mixed feelings about the current situation. On one hand, the distribution of a vaccine means that there is hope — finally, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. On the other hand, the journey isn’t over yet. People are still practicing social distancing, wearing masks, working and schooling from home, and are limited on what they can do and where they can go. For over a year, people have been “managing,” but prolonged stress, ongoing uncertainty, and a lack of being able to relax, connect with others, or even go on vacation has many hitting their breaking point. That breaking point can also be referred to as burnout, and in today’s blog from Blair Wellness Group, we would like to take a more in-depth look at what it is and how you can effectively manage stress so that it doesn’t result in burnout. Keep reading, and if you’re looking for a psychologist in Los Angeles who can help you manage stress and prevent burnout, please contact us.
Rebuilding Your Bond
Burnout is the result of prolonged or chronic stress. It is a state of mental and physical exhaustion that is often associated with those in healthcare professions. Doctors, nurses, and other caregivers who work long hours, are exposed to stressful situations, and are constantly sacrificing themselves for others tend to be at a higher risk for burnout. However, in the age of COVID, burnout can affect anyone — whether you’re one of the healthcare workers on the front line, a small business owner trying to keep from closing your doors, or a stay-at-home parent who has had to act as homemaker, teacher, and entertainer, without a break, for over a year. Burnout is a very real threat.
The Difference Between Stress and Burnout
Just about everyone has been dealing with added tension and worry as a result of COVID, but burnout is much more than just typical stress. When someone experiences a high-level of stress for a long period of time, it can manifest into symptoms beyond mild anxiety, depression, or the occasional trouble sleeping. Burnout takes these feelings to a whole new level.
For someone experiencing burnout, mild depression can turn into feeling like your life has lost all meaning and you’re giving up hope of overcoming your obstacles. The stress that may have once driven you to keep going and push forward can turn into apathy, indifference, and emotional detachment. While someone under stress will usually feel better and recharged after a good night’s sleep or a few days off, someone experiencing burnout won’t bounce back as quickly.
Signs of Burnout
The most important step in managing burnout is to first recognize the symptoms. If you or someone you know is exhibiting these signs, it’s important to get help as soon as possible.
Physical Symptoms
Lowered immune system/Frequent illness
Frequent headaches
Stomachaches
Unexplained aches and pains
Overwhelming fatigue
Insomnia
Psychological and Behavioral Symptoms
Feeling emotionally numb
Increasing cynicism
Lack of motivation
Poor job performance
Social isolation
Easily irritated
Getting Help for Burnout
If you suspect that you’re on the verge of burnout, it’s important to make some immediate changes for your health. Practicing good self-care habits such as eating a balanced diet, exercising, and getting enough rest can help, but working with an experienced psychologist will likely be more effective and provide faster and long-lasting results.
If you’re looking for a psychologist in Los Angeles who can help you manage stress, learn effective coping mechanisms, and avoid burnout. Contact Blair Wellness Group at 310.999.4996 to schedule an in-person, telephone, or virtual teletherapy meeting.
