Job burnout affects a great deal of professionals across all industries. A recent poll of tech workers showed that nearly 60 percent are suffering from the condition. Unfortunately, not everyone who experiences burnout knows what causes it or how to relieve its symptoms.
What is burnout?
Burnout is a state of chronic stress that leads to exhaustion, detachment and feelings of ineffectiveness. If not managed, burnout can have severe consequences, including depression, heart disease, insomnia and alcohol abuse.
Job burnout can be due to various factors, including:
- Work-life imbalance
- Lack of control over your work
- Insufficient compensation or recognition
- Unfair treatment
- Lack of community and support
- Dysfunctional workplace culture
- Misaligned values
- Poor job fit
Could you be experiencing burnout?
People suffering from burnout often show the following symptoms:
- Poor work performance
- Cognitive problems
- Lack of motivation at work
- High number of absences
- Isolation and detachment
- Irritability and negative attitude
- Exhaustion
- Trouble sleeping
- Weak immune system
How do you manage burnout?
Below are some steps you can take to help relieve burnout. If none of the suggestions work, it’s advised that you speak with a professional to help manage your symptoms and receive a proper diagnosis.
- Manage the stressors that are causing you to burnout
- Examine whether the burnout is motivated by internal factors or if it’s the fault of work
- Create work-life balance
- Learn stress management techniques
- Adjust your attitude
- Develop a healthy self-care routine
- Find a support network
- Take time off from work
- Consider talking to your manager or HR about creating a better work environment. If they are unwilling to help, it’s time to move on.