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

Defining Burnout

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?

• 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

• 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?

• 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.