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.