8 Warning Signs Of A Possible Burnout At Work

[LoShiNi]

Contrary to popular belief, burnout doesn’t happen only when you work too much. You can be headed for a burnout even without overtime work. At the same time, we all know people who work hard but continue to enjoy life and excel professionally.

As it turns out, some individuals are more prone to this problem. On average, women are 1,6 times more likely to report burnout than man, but it doesn’t mean that men don’t have it. Men have less willingness to admit that they are fatigued at work.


In addition, experts have revealed certain factors that seem to contribute to burnout. They include:

- poor work/life balance;

- lack of training and support at work;

- stressful work environment;

- problems with proper self-care (eating well, exercise);

- being engaged in work that you don’t think important;

- perfectionism.

Job burnout is real, and it is essential to recognize the first warning signs before it is too late. But how do you know that it is burnout?

At first, you should analyze how work stress affects your everyday life. Here are eight signs you might be headed for a burnout at work.

1. Chronic low energy and exhaustion

Researchers call exhaustion one of the three dimensions of burnout. It is not just feeling tired, exhaustion related to burnout is much more serious. If a person is feeling constantly overwhelmed and maxed out, it can be a symptom of burnout.

2. Every problem causes a major crisis

Something is wrong when even small issues lead to strong emotional reactions. People suffering from burnout typically don’t have enough mental and physical resources to distinguish between a big crisis and small problem.

3. Unhealthy life choices

People who are experiencing burnout don’t have the energy to make healthy lifestyle choices. They may stop exercising as well as eat too little or too much. Studies also suggest that they are more likely to consume alcohol as a way to escape their anxiety and depression.

4. Inability to stop thinking about work

It is pretty normal to think about the work tasks in free time. But if these thoughts result in anxiety or interfere with day-to-day activities, it may be a warning sign that a person is on the road to burnout.

5. Stress-related health issues

People who are suffering from burnout often have health issues associated with depression and anxiety. They can include gastrointestinal problems, back pain, headaches, and low energy levels.


6. Sleep problems

Occasional insomnia is not a problem, but the frequent inability to fall asleep, especially if caused by thoughts of work, can indicate burnout. Scientists also believe that insomnia may predict the onset of burnout. So, if a person is struggling with sleep, it is important to take steps to prevent other problems as soon as possible.

7. Irritability at work and home

Increased irritability can be a sign of burnout too. It is easy to lose control when you don’t have enough energy to function. People can be so overwhelmed by their own issues and exhaustion that minor annoyances cause an intense feeling of anger.

8. Missing work

One study has demonstrated that people suffering from burnout are more likely to be late or even absent for work. They can start looking for excuses to miss work and have lack of motivation to appear in time.