What are the symptoms of burnout?
Burnout, or professional exhaustion syndrome, is a state of intense physical, emotional and mental fatigue, often linked to prolonged exposure to stress at work. According to the WHO, it is classified as a work-related problem and not as an illness. It manifests itself through a set of diverse symptoms and affects several aspects of daily life. It is essential to recognize these signs quickly to prevent serious consequences on health (including mental and physical).
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Severe and chronic fatigue
One of the first signs of burnout is persistent fatigue. It’s not just being tired after a long day at work, but an overwhelming fatigue that doesn’t go away even after rest. People feel constantly exhausted, whether physically, mentally or emotionally.
Affected employees may feel unable to cope with their days, even with simple tasks. This fatigue can also be exacerbated by constant stress, which disrupts sleep, leading to insomnia or frequent awakenings during the night, thus reinforcing exhaustion. Stress is a major factor in burnout, and when it becomes chronic, it can have a negative impact on mental and physical health, increasing the risk of exhaustion.
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Decreased professional efficiency
Burnout causes a loss of productivity. Tasks that were once simple become complex, and concentration decreases. People affected may take much longer to complete a task because their ability to concentrate and make decisions is affected.
This decrease in efficiency often generates a feeling of failure or incompetence. Work, once a source of pride, becomes a source of anxiety. In many cases, this situation can lead to a work stoppage. Work stoppage allows you to take a step back, rest and focus on your health. These stoppages are often necessary to avoid a worsening of symptoms and to give time to put in place effective preventive measures.
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Cognitive disorders and lack of concentration
Exhaustion also affects cognitive functioning. People who are burned out have difficulty concentrating or remembering information. They may lose their train of thought or feel confused when faced with complex tasks. This impairment in mental abilities is one of the most frustrating signs for those suffering from burnout, as it directly affects the quality of their work.
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Emotional detachment
Another common symptom is emotional disengagement. People experiencing burnout may feel detached from their work, even desensitized. They may lose interest in projects they were once passionate about and become cynical or indifferent.
Cynicism, irritability and sarcasm may also appear, especially towards colleagues or superiors. This can create tensions in the workplace and increase isolation.
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Feeling of failure or incompetence
Faced with these difficulties, the feeling of failure becomes omnipresent. Individuals experiencing burnout often feel that they are no longer up to their responsibilities, which fuels a loss of self-confidence. This drop in self-esteem is reinforced by the inability to accomplish tasks that were once simple. This feeling of helplessness is particularly pernicious, because it can lead to an overall devaluation, even in personal life.
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Physical problems
Burnout does not only manifest itself on a psychological level. Physical symptoms can also appear. These include headaches, muscle pain, tension in the neck or shoulders, as well as digestive problems (bloating, stomach aches). Some people may also suffer from palpitations or difficulty breathing.
Additionally, the physical exhaustion associated with burnout weakens the immune system, which can make a person more vulnerable to common infections or illnesses.
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Social isolation
Individuals affected by burnout often tend to withdraw into themselves. This can manifest itself in a decrease in social interactions, both in the personal and professional spheres. They avoid discussions with colleagues or friends, because they often feel misunderstood or judged. This isolation only worsens emotional distress and can lead to more serious problems such as depression.
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Avoidance behaviors
People experiencing burnout seek to avoid stressful situations, often by taking frequent time off or developing avoidance behaviors at work. This may involve prolonged or repeated absences, reduced working hours, or reduced investment in projects.
Psychological factors and risk of depression
Burnout is often associated with psychological factors, such as anxiety, loss of control over one's professional life, and a constant feeling of failure. These elements can lead to a significant drop in self-esteem and increase the risk of depression. People experiencing burnout are more vulnerable to depressive episodes, as they are often overwhelmed by chronic stress and feelings of helplessness. The risk of depression is particularly worrying, as it can lead to serious consequences for mental health and require urgent medical attention.
What to do when faced with burnout?
If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs, it is crucial to act quickly. Burnout, although it may seem like a simple temporary fatigue, can have serious consequences on physical and mental health if nothing is done to prevent or treat it.
Consult a professional
A general practitioner or psychologist can help you understand the origin of the discomfort and guide you towards appropriate solutions. In some cases, a psychiatrist may also be involved, especially when symptoms of depression or severe anxiety are present. The role of the doctor is to assess the general state of health, to propose a work stoppage if necessary, and to refer to appropriate follow-up, sometimes including medication. The psychiatrist, for his part, is qualified to diagnose mental disorders associated with burnout and to propose specialized treatment, which is essential for comprehensive and effective care.
Reorganize your work
If possible, discussing with your manager solutions to reduce the workload , possibly including temporary leave or adopting more flexible hours, can be beneficial. Dialogue is essential to find a compromise.
Taking care of yourself
Setting up activities that allow you to recharge your batteries is essential: sports, meditation, going out with friends, creative activities, or even spending time in nature. Relaxation and regular breaks help reduce pressure and allow you to reconnect with yourself. The goal is to find moments of decompression to release stress and strengthen your resilience in the face of everyday challenges.
Reconnecting with your values
Sometimes burnout occurs when you've lost the meaning of your work. Taking a step back and redefining what really matters can help you regain motivation and clarity.
Burnout is an increasingly common problem in our modern societies. It is crucial to recognize its symptoms to prevent the situation from getting worse. Prompt treatment, coupled with lifestyle changes, can help restore balance and prevent more severe exhaustion. If you feel affected by these symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a professional to get the help you need.
