The answer to that is easy: YES.

Burnout is a complex state of complete mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion (characterised by some key elements).

Burnout is not caused solely by stressful work environments or too many responsibilities. It can be experienced by people who have experienced prolonged levels of chronic stress and pressure. There are often many complex factors that contribute to burnout. The key word here is ‘chronic.’ Burnout doesn’t spring up overnight; it occurs slowly over time. And the cost of experiencing burnout can be really high – to you, and to your workplace.

Burnout at work can include these experiences:

• 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.
• You may notice an increase in other difficult emotions like helplessness, cynicism, feeling detached or alone in the world.
• You may experience a sense of failure or self-doubt.
• You may experience physical symptoms like headaches, fatigue, frequent illness, or changes in appetite or sleep.
• Your performance in everyday tasks may be going downhill. Your productivity may be impacted at work, too. Things like clock-watching, feeling unmotivated or increased absenteeism may occur.
• You may feel tempted to withdraw or isolate yourself.

To address burnout at work: we recommend considering these 4 kinds of support… Are they available to you? Who can you ask about these things?

1. Emotional support: it’s helpful to have people to express empathy, trust, care for you.
2. Esteem support: it’s also helpful to have people who express their confidence and encouragement for you, who can validate you and point out your strengths.
3. Informational support: support gathering resources and sharing information that is helpful is important.
4. Tangible support: finally, getting physical help dealing with problems as they arise is an important part of your support at work.

Caring for yourself during burnout: the best way of caring for yourself is to take pre-emptive steps to buffer against burnout BEFORE things get really tough. If you recognise some of the above warning signs starting to creep into your life, here are some ideas to regain a sense of balance and wellbeing:

• Turn to other people for support: friends, colleagues, or community groups.
• Spend time reflecting on things in your life you truly value, that hold great meaning to you.
• Take time off work where needed.
• Take regular breaks during the workday (yes, we really mean that).
• Nourishing your creativity by doing something interesting or expressive.
• Make physical activity a priority to boost your mood and energy.
• Support your body with a healthy diet and quality sleep.

How to Access a Psychologist at CQ Psych Services:

• Contact us directly by calling 07 4972 6929 or email admin@cqpsychservices.com.au
• Ask your GP or health professional to refer you to our clinic.
• Come in and see our friendly staff at Shop 1 & 2, 13 Tank Street, Gladstone QLD 4680.
• Visit our website and complete a ‘Request an Appointment’ form and one of our friendly staff will reply to your enquiry. Website: https://cqpsychservices.com.au/

Author: Kelsie Realf

Psychologist