Burnout and Self-Care

Burnout.  I am hearing this word a lot this year.  These truly have been unprecedented times. There have been so many changes and so many unknowns. We are all trying to manage our regular lives, and the increased uncertainty produces a stress response and can lead to burnout. Burnout can be defined as “A state of physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual depletion, characterized by feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.”  Sound familiar?

 Burnout can result in physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual changes, such as:

·        Feelings of fatigue/exhaustion

·        Lack of concentration

·        Withdrawal and intentional isolation

·        Lack of interest in activities

·        Irritability/agitation

·        Changes in sleep/eating habits

·        Crying easily

·        Becoming indifferent/cynical

·        Difficulty making decisions

Are you reading this list and saying to yourself, “yes, Yes, and YES”?  Consider ways to create balance, by increasing focus on self-care.

Self-Care can be defined as “the practice of taking an active role in protecting and preserving one’s own health, well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.”

What is self-care not? Selfish, a waste of time, or laziness.

Self-care for one person might be the opposite for another. The key to great self-care is to identify an activity (or activities) that can be done with intention to refresh, recharge, and renew yourself. Taking care of ourselves allows us to be able to take care of those we love and be better equipped mentally and emotionally to do so.

Some simple examples of self-care:

·        Focus on fragrance: Diffusing your favorite essential oil, or buy yourself some fragrant flowers

·        Connect with nature: A short walk or hike

·        Friendships: Setting aside time to call a friend

·        Soak in the beauty: Watch the sunrise (sunset), or focus on a flower

·        Spiritual practices: Daily devotions or positive affirmations

·        Engage your creativity: painting, sewing, crafting, coloring, even writing!

·        A bit of luxury: Mani/pedi, or a massage

Another successful form of self-care? Therapy!  Therapy is an opportunity to take time to enhance and broaden your self-awareness and gain a different perspective on life while being supported, encouraged and empowered to do so. Reach out if you need help. You deserve it and you are worth it.