Job burnout is a real work-related syndrome and can occur in any kind of profession. The community as a whole and some professions more than others have been really impacted by burnout, stress and anxiety these past couple of years.  It does not seem to be getting better.

There are many factors that contribute to burnout and stress, but not limited to:

  • Work/life imbalance
  • Unclear job expectations
  • Dysfunction at home or in the workplace
  • Social media/news overload
  • Lack of social support
  • Health issues

If we ignore these problems or concerns, it can lead to a host of other issues such as fatigue, insomnia, alcohol or substance abuse, outbursts of anger, depression, and potentially severe illness.

There are many ways to handle burnout and stress.  Here are some thoughts on dealing with it.

  1. Evaluate your options – if you are feeling pressured at work, overwhelmed, discuss these specific concerns with your immediate supervisor.  Be honest and open.  Many employers offer Employee Assistance Program that are confidential.  Discuss the possibility of a “mental health day” once or twice a month where you completely disconnect from work.  That helps a lot of people get back on track.
  2. Get outdoors; get some exercise – Always consult your personal physician before any physical activity but getting outdoors and exercising on a regular basis can help you better deal with stress.
  3. Seek support from family, friends – You are not in this alone.  So many people are suffering from burnout, stress.  Talk to your family, close friends and maybe try one-on-one therapy with a professional counselor.
  4. Pick up a good book and a nice cup of tea – We are all so connected to our computers, cel phones and digital gadgets.  Why not pick up an actual book!  Travel books, mystery novels, old-fashion comic books are some favorites for a lot of people.  Set out some time during the week where it is your “reading/tea break” – or whatever your elixir is, to relax and disconnect.
  5. Take a weekend road trip – We live near the mountains and the ocean.  Why not take a couple of days and go on a short road trip?  We have Utah, California, Arizona as our neighbors.  Lots of options.  The question is can you “disconnect” from the cel phone, computer, social media for a few hours a day?
  6. Get out of your comfort zone – Why not try something completely out of the ordinary to you?  Dancing lessons, horseback riding, karate or even cooking classes, another language – those are just ideas about the possibilities that exist. There are also interesting online courses that cover history, the theater, art and other topics.  Check out:  www.visitgreatcourses.com 
  7. Meditation and Mindfulness – One if the recent trends to deal with stress and anxiety is meditation and mindfulness.  We know this practice has been around for hundreds of years and all it takes is a few minutes a day to begin.  Try to take a few minutes each morning to focus on your breath flow.  Be quiet and still for a few minutes.  Try to do this each morning and if you can in the evening.  You might want to check out yoga, reiki or singing bowl meditation.  

There are many local resources you can look up including:  

www.enchantedforestreiki.com 

www.stillpointcsd.org

www.mindful.org

Be aware that many people are suffering right now from burnout and stress.  Keep an open mind when exploring the possibilities out there. Do not give up.