The Psychology Behind Burnout

Burn Out is a serious issue for all of us, and in particular those in the health care provider roles. Herbert Freudenberger is the psychologist who is believed to have first started using the term in the 70's , defining it as "a loss of motivation, growing sense of emotional depletion, and cynicism". The similarities the to the symptoms of depression should not be dismissed: it's a serious and damaging experience both physically and mentally.

Workplace stress has a healthy part in our lives, it helps us focus, builds motivation and can actually increase efficiency - however, healthy stress can quickly lead to burn out. Knowing when you're at that tipping point is essential self-knowledge. ⠀ How to handle mental and emotional exhaustion is part of a self-care routine that is unique to each of us. In general, a self care plan revolves around: learning to be okay with:⠀ ⠀ 1) giving yourself a break ⠀ 2) saying no and ⠀ 3) rewarding yourself

There's also something to be said about coming back after burnout. It is possible to recover, and return to work when healed. If you're feeling burned out, know that you can come back from this, bigger and brighter than before.