In this blog I will be sharing some of the signs that may indicate that a colleague is possibly burnt out. According to the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11): “Burn-out is a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.”
The upcoming list mentions some of the most common signs and symptoms of burn-out. It is important to note that this is not a completely comprehensive list and, thus, people may be experiencing other effects of burn-out that are not mentioned here.
1. How would burn-out impact someone’s thoughts?
The cognitive presentation of burn-out can include the following: A change in the person’s ability to concentrate (poor concentration), new or an increase in difficulties when making decisions, experiencing new or an increase in racing or intrusive thoughts, excessively worrying and catastrophizing.
2. How would burnout impact someone’s body and physical health?
The physical signs and symptoms of burn-out can include the following: Exhaustion or prolonged fatigue, regularly experiencing headaches and tension around one’s head and neck, insomnia, backache, frequently or persistently feeling unwell.
3. What are the emotional presentations of burn-out?
Some ways in which burn-out may impact someone’s emotions and expression of emotions can include: Getting upset, irritable or angered more easily or frequently than usual, feeling a sense of hopelessness towards whether the situation can progress, feeling anxiety or a sense of heaviness that was not experienced before.
4. How can being burnt-out impact the way someone acts and behaves?
Being burnt-out can also impact someone’s habits and behavior. Some examples could include the following: An increase in the use of alcohol or drugs, being absent from work, increased or new isolation from others, refusal or issues related to participation in teamwork, added difficulty in maintaining a balance between work and personal life that works well enough for the person.
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Rebecca Cassar is a Family Therapist practicing the Systemic Approach. She specializes in offering therapy to families, couples and individuals who are experiencing distress in their relationships. She can be contacted on rebecca@willingness.com.mt or call us on 79291817.