Are You Dealing With Burnout?
Amber BrandtAmber Brandt
Amber is a StoryBrand certified copywriter and mom. Her goal is to create engaging articles that educate and inspire.
Articles by Amber
For the past few years, society has collectively experienced an increased level of stress, emotional demands, and an ever-changing landscape of risk. It has taken a toll on everyone. But how do you know if what you’re feeling is simply an adjustment to a “new normal” or if it’s burnout? Experts identify the most common signs of burnout as:
Here are 6 simple, evidence-based strategies for processing stress so you can avoid burnout:
- Alienation from work-related activities. People suffering from burnout often feel cynical or resentful toward their work (even if they’re a stay-at-home parent whose work isn’t outside the home). These individuals view their tasks as increasingly stressful and frustrating. They may find themselves attempting to emotionally distance themselves from work.
- Physical symptoms. Headaches, insomnia, fatigue, stomach aches, or intestinal issues are all largely connected to chronic stress.
- Emotional depletion. Feeling drained, unable to cope, and exhaustion are all associated with burnout.
- Reduced performance. Burnout causes people to experience a lack of creativity or have difficulty concentrating.
Here are 6 simple, evidence-based strategies for processing stress so you can avoid burnout:
- Physical activity. This could include going for a walk, dancing, jumping jacks, or punching a pillow. Because stress is physical in nature, physical activity can help release it.
- Creativity. Knit, paint, sing, write… however you best express. Do it.
- Laughter. Have you ever found yourself breaking into contagious laughter with a friend after a good hard cry? Cracking up is a natural mood lifter and provides relief to complete the stress cycle.
- Physical affection. A good, strong hug or time with a pet can help the body release oxytocin, slow the heart rate, and help you experience a sense of safety.
- Deep breathing. Here’s a simple practice: breathe in slowly for five seconds, hold that breath for the count of five, then exhale for 10 seconds. This intentional breathing can signal an end to the fight-or-flight stress response in the body.