Burnout: Is there a relationship between the syndrome and new expectations for the year?

Burnout is a syndrome caused by an overload of activities and responsibilities that result in exhaustion of the mind and body. It is worth noting that many times it is not only the obligations assigned to us, but also those that we take on as our own that can trigger the condition.

In recent years, health professionals, women working double shifts and other workers have been diagnosed with Burnout. The Syndrome is related to the pressure we have on our results.

Therefore, there is nothing better than knowing how it works, what its most common causes are and, most importantly, how to avoid it. Furthermore, Burnout syndrome can cause several problems in an individual's life, whether personal or even social.

To better explain this topic, we have prepared special content. Find out how to prevent what to do to have a healthy routine and avoid this overload that leads to Burnout.

To do this, simply continue reading briefly!

A silent danger: burnout syndrome

Burnout syndrome is a syndrome that has become even more well-known in recent years, especially during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. In general terms, we can highlight this syndrome as a psychological disorder resulting from extreme exhaustion that occurs in the workplace, at school or even in the social sphere.

This psychological condition is mainly characterized by the constant presence of emotional tension and stress, resulting from exhausting psychological and emotional effort.

It tends to predominantly affect professionals who work with high levels of interpersonal involvement, such as those in the areas of education, health, human resources, firefighters, prison officers and women who work double shifts. Students are also susceptible to this syndrome.

Regarding the Covid-19 pandemic, it is interesting to note that this period was an aggravating factor for the development of psychological illnesses, one of which is Burnout syndrome.

Psychological and physical symptoms of burnout syndrome

Understanding the symptoms is of utmost importance to start a journey with professionals trained to diagnose Burnout. After all, in cases where the professional or even the student does not receive the correct diagnosis, a series of other problems can develop, such as:

• Weakening of the immune system
• Heart disease
• Muscle pain
• High blood pressure
• Addictions to drug and alcohol use

We cannot fail to highlight the physical illnesses that can also be the result of inadequate treatment for burnout syndrome that has not been properly diagnosed. In addition, mental exhaustion can be a reflection of negative actions that are associated with:

• Aggressiveness
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Isolation
• Absence from work or academic life
• Too many mood swings
• Difficulty with concentration
• Irritability
• Memory lapses
• Low self-esteem
• Pessimism

Who to turn to after being diagnosed with Burnout syndrome?

Once the diagnosis of burnout syndrome is made, it is necessary to start monitoring with a health and medical professional. In cases like this, the patient may be monitored by an occupational physician, psychiatrist, neurologist, psychiatrist and general practitioner.

Any of these doctors should start treatment to relieve symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life. Treatment is medication and must include psychotherapy sessions.

Can companies prevent burnout?

The vast majority of burnout cases are linked to organizational factors in companies. Therefore, it is important for managers to plan improvements in activities and implement actions that minimize competitiveness and alleviate the risks of these psychological illnesses.

When an employee goes on vacation, the department automatically suffers. Therefore, creating a daily plan to plan how work is distributed and charged can make a big difference to the team's well-being.

Long working hours with few breaks, where competitiveness is greatly stimulated, can bring several disadvantages and even facilitate Burnout. A health plan can also be subscribed to by the work institution to cover the care of these professionals who deal with a more demanding work schedule.

Finally, it is important that, in line with these improvement actions, the human resources sector also plays its role, holding managers accountable for the mission of preventing Burnout by limiting activities.

As a professional, how can you avoid burnout?

The syndrome usually occurs when the professional does not set time limits for work, becoming someone who neglects the importance of leisure and rest, remaining constantly involved in their activities.

Even if a professional enjoys their work and finds satisfaction in it, it is crucial to set aside time throughout the week for rest, allowing themselves to completely disconnect from professional responsibilities.

Another common aspect that leads to this syndrome is the belief that being an excellent professional requires continuous productivity, striving for perfection in all areas of life as planned. In practice, this is not feasible, as it is common for people to dedicate time and prioritize different areas at specific moments in their lives.

To prevent this psychological problem, the Ministry of Health highlights some recommended practices for professionals:

• Set small goals in your professional and personal life
• Maintain a healthy sleep routine with at least 8 hours per night
• Practice physical activities
• Participate in leisure activities
• Avoid the consumption of alcoholic beverages and other drugs
• Stay away from pessimistic people
• Share your feelings with someone you trust.