Burnout: Definition, Causes, Signs, & What Should You Do When Experiencing It?

Defining Burnout (www.helpguide.org): “Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It occurs when you feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands.”

What Causes Burnout? (webmd.com & mayoclinic.org)

Unmanageable workloads
Work-life imbalance
Unfair treatment at work
Lack of social support
Confusing work responsibilities
Lack of communication or support from managers
Immense deadline pressure

Signs of Burnout (Psychology Today):

Chronic Fatigue
Insomnia
Forgetfulness
Increased Illness
Loss of Appetite
Anxiety
Depression
Anger
Pessimism
Isolation
Detachment
Increased Irritability
Lack of Productivity and poor performance

What should you do when experiencing burnout? (MayoClinic.org/hbr.org)

Prioritize yourself
Seek support
Practice mindfulness
Do something that is fun and relaxing for you.
Sleep! It’s so important mentally and physically.
Take a step back… Reassess.

Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates is a St Louis mental health therapy practice in Creve Coeur, Missouri. The practice has a team of mental health therapists who provide therapy and counseling services to kids, teens, adults, couples, and families. Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates specializes in stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, and other mental health related issues and concerns. The practice can be reached by phone at: 314-942-1147, by email at: bryan@stlmentalhealth.com or on the web at: www.STLmentalhealth.com. The office is located at: 655 Craig Road, Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63141.