What is the difference between burnout and stress?
To put it simply, burnout has mainly to do with too much stress, related to work. It is physical, mental and emotional exhaustion caused by work over a prolonged period. It happens gradually and creeps up on a person. You feel like there is no more to give.
Stress on the other hand is knowing that you have too much pressure and demands but you still have the ability to see that once this is over, you will be ok. You have hope that it will pass.
Signs of burnout include:
Feeling of hopelessness, helplessness and can’t see an end to it
Self-doubt and low self-esteem
Procrastination and loss of motivation
Feeling exhausted and drained
Inability to meet demands at work
Frequent colds and illnesses
Changes in both eating habits and sleep
Mood changes, getting frustrated and taking it out on others
Many people are at risk of succumbing to burnout. The ones who work too much or don’t take enough time off, to a busy mum who also has to look after kids, the house and maybe ageing parents.
Some of these lifestyle issues can also cause burnout:
Lack of sleep
Not enough time off
Being a perfectionist and doing everything yourself
Lack of close relationships
Having a pessimistic view of most things
There are many things we can do to avoid burnout.
The first and most important one is social contact and connection to other people. Reaching out and talking to others is immensely helpful. There is a reason why the expression ‘A problem shared, is a problem halved’ is still around. A good listener will have that effect when a person is heard and seen without judgment.
Look out for each other at work. At break time, grab a coffee and have a chat instead of solitude on your phone. Doesn’t have to be a serious chat, just general. Arrange an event after work if possible.
There is something called energy thieves in Swedish, and found all over the world! Be aware of people that drain you and avoid hanging around with them. Choose to spend time with positive people and I can guarantee you that they will lift you too.
Connect with others outside of work like choirs, hiking, cycling, cinema or crafts. Anything you enjoy which makes you feel good.
Having a balance in life is really important. Your social, family and work life all have their part in your life. Volunteering is another aspect that brings joy, what can you do?
So look out and be aware of changes in yourself before you ‘hit’ the wall. Prevention is key to having a healthy and balanced life.
We love working with companies to help with these issues. It is a common problem that has to be dealt with from the top down.
We are here to help.
Åse & Jenni
