Stress is and always will be present in our lives. No matter how much we may wish for a stress-free life, stress is a natural human response that is necessary and ever present. In small amounts, stress can improve mental wellbeing, by boosting productivity, alertness, and energy levels.
However, when our experience of stress becomes prolonged or greater than our ability to cope with, it can be physically and mentally draining. Chronic stress can have overwhelming consequences on your mind and body and can lead to burnout.
Burnout is a state of complete mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion. If you are experiencing burnout, you may notice it is difficult to engage in activities you normally find meaningful. You may no longer care about the things that are important to you or experience an increasing sense of hopelessness.
Burnout is not caused solely by stressful work environments or too many responsibilities. It can be experienced by anyone with prolonged levels of chronic stress and pressure causing situations, such as taking care of an elderly parent who is suffering from a prolonged illness, or being unable to find suitable housing for your family.
Common signs include trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, losing interest in your favourite activities, and getting sick more often. Awareness about how you are feeling is key to not getting to a point where you suffer from burnout.
Now is the time to pause and change direction by learning how you can help yourself overcome burnout. If you recognize some of these warning signs starting to creep into your life or may already be present, finding ways to regain a sense of well-being again may include:
• Turn to other people for support: friends, colleagues, or community groups.
• Reframe the way you look at work or your home life by finding value, meaning and balance.
• Reevaluate your priorities by taking time off or regular breaks during the day.
• Nourishing your creativity by doing something interesting.
• Make physical activity a priority to boost your mood and energy.
• Support your body with a healthy diet and quality sleep.
Remember, it is always wise to talk with a trained professional, especially if feelings of hopelessness and loneliness start to take over every aspect of your life. You are not alone and you can ask for help.
