Navigating Workplace Burn Out: How to Understand and Prevent Exhaustion

Have you ever felt so stressed and exhausted at work that you just couldn't do it anymore? If so, you're not alone. Burnout is a growing problem in today's workplace, and it can have a serious impact on our physical and mental health.

What is Burnout?According to the World Health Organization (WHO), burnout is a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been effectively managed. It manifests in three dimensions: feelings of energy depletion, feelings of negativism, and reduced professional efficacy.
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How Widespread is Burnout?Understanding the prevalence of burnout is crucial in acknowledging its seriousness. According to the recent Microsoft's Work Trend Index, 53% of managers report feeling burned out at work. This staggering statistic highlights the widespread impact of burnout, especially among managerial positions.

What Causes Burnout?Burnout often results from a combination of factors, with chronic stress being a common underlying element. Although it is common to link burnout to excessive workload, there are many other key contributors. For example, burnout can be caused by a lack of control, work-life imbalance, poor organizational support, and more.
How Can You Recognize Burnout?Detecting early signs of burnout is essential to address it promptly. Symptoms to watch for include physical exhaustion, emotional fatigue, reduced performance, negative emotional changes, social withdrawal, and dissatisfaction. Additionally, frequent illnesses, difficulty disconnecting from work, loss of interest in activities, and difficulty setting boundaries may also signal impending burnout.

How Can You Prevent Burnout?When battling burnout, nurturing mental well-being is paramount. Here are five tips to prevent burning out:

• Prioritize self-care: Dedicate time for yourself, focusing on better sleep, nourishing nutrition, and regular gentle physical activity. Engage in activities that bring joy and flow, like reading, painting, spending time in nature, or pursuing hobbies.
• Set boundaries: Define your clear boundaries between work and personal life. Learn to trust yourself and say "no" when necessary. Communicate your limits and needs to your colleagues and loved ones.
• Practice mindfulness: Learn to pay conscious attention to your senses, like feeling the touch and temperature of your morning coffee. Try listening to the sounds around you. Train your self-awareness with deep breathing exercises or short meditations.
• Seek support: Reach out to friends, family, or mental health professionals such as therapists or coaches for emotional support and insights. Surround yourself with a supportive and positive network that prioritizes your well-being.
• Take breaks: Allow yourself to regularly disconnect from work or demanding activities. Disconnect from screens and work-related tasks during me-time to recharge and unwind.

 
Burnout is a serious problem, both in Switzerland and all over the world. It can have a significant impact on our physical and mental health, and it can lead to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and even turnover.

However, burnout is preventable. By understanding its impact and following these tips, you can take proactive steps to protect your mental health and prevent burnout.

If you're feeling burned out, don't hesitate to reach out for help. There are many resources available to you, including therapists, coaches, and support groups. You don't have to go through this alone, you can reclaim your health and well-being.
 
By Anne-Laure Ninnis, Happiness and Mental Fitness Coach
​Photo credit: Vasilis Caravitis, Unsplash

Contact Anne-Laure or one of our Coaching Group of Switzerland coaches for support.