A Global Health - Occupational Phenomenon

In 2019 the World Health Organization (WHO) officially classified burnout under the International Classification of Diseases (ICD11-QD85).

Burnout is a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It is characterized by three dimensions: 1) feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; 2) increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job; and 3) a sense of ineffectiveness and lack of accomplishment. 

*Burnout from chronic workplace stress that has not been managed and can ALSO be caused by unemployment.*

WHO’S AT RISK

Professionals are more likely to be at risk for or experience burnout when:

• They feel unappreciated for their work efforts

• Never feel the work they do is good enough

• Have unreasonable demands placed on them

• Expect too much of themselves

• Are in positions or given tasks that are not a good fit 

• Feel inadequate or incompetent 

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF BURNOUT  

Some of the signs and symptoms of Someone experiencing Burnout can include:

• Increased Irritability & Frustration 

• Decreased Motivation

• Increased Cynical Attitude 

• Increase in Headaches & Migraines 

• Withdrawal from Social Events with Family & Friends 

• Poor Sleeping Habits &  Increased Fatigue 

• Increased Work Errors and/or Accidents

• Suspicious / Resentful of Co-workers and Colleagues

• Change or Decline in Personal Appearance 

• Self Medicating with Alcohol & Other Drugs (legal and illegal)

• Feeling Threatened /Having Panic Attacks 

Consequences of job burnout

Medical research shows that ignoring or putting offing job burnout can have significant consequences, including:

• Headaches

• Fatigue

• Insomnia

• Depression

• Alcohol or substance abuse

• Anxiety

• High blood pressure

• Type 2 diabetes

• Vulnerability to illnesses

And in some cases excessive and repeated burnout can lead to heart disease, stroke and sudden cardiac death.

GETTING HELP 

Even when we recognize that we are experiencing chronic stress because of our job (or lack of a job), we are often unsure where we are suppose to get help from. This is especially true for overwhelmed professional in the helping professions - Therapists, Physicians, Nurses, Social Workers, Attorneys, Teachers, Psychologists, Firefighters and Military / Veterans. If your not sure where to start - schedule a free work/life balance consultation to discuss burnout recover services.