Burnout - more than just a bit of stress

Everyone knows this feeling after a long and exhausting week: you feel exhausted and somehow drained. A certain amount of stress and exhaustion is quite normal under special circumstances. But if this becomes a permanent condition, the excessive stress can develop into the burnout syndrome. This condition should be taken seriously. But what exactly is a burnout? What are the causes and how is it treated? We have summarised the most important facts. 

List of content:

• What exactly is the burnout syndrome?
• How does the burnout syndrome manifest itself? 
• What are the causes?
  
• How can a burnout be treated?

What exactly is the burnout syndrome?

The term burnout was first used in the 1980s by the psychoanalyst Herbert Freudenberger. At that time, it referred exclusively to people who worked in social professions. The theory was that these people in particular were extremely self-sacrificing, caring for other people without paying attention to their own needs. He was mainly referring to people who do not take care of themselves enough and are very ambitious and perfectionistic. 

Another approach would be that the causes of the burnout syndrome have more to do with external factors, such as the work environment, arguments or misunderstandings with colleagues, low income, etc.. It can be assumed that both internal and external circumstances can lead to the burnout syndrome.

Burnout means burnt out. This is a pretty good description, because the burnout syndrome refers to extreme exhaustion. This can occur physically, emotionally and mentally and often results in reduced performance. Strictly speaking, however, a burnout is not a disease in its own right, but rather a condition that can lead to a wide variety of psychological or psychosomatic symptoms and/or diseases. 

How does the burnout syndrome manifest itself?

Basically, it is hardly possible to answer this question unequivocally. The burnout syndrome is very difficult to diagnose and the symptoms are very individual. In addition, the symptoms often overlap with those of depression and anxiety disorders, which, however, can also be a consequence of a burnout. At this point it is important to say that in case of serious suspicion one should definitely consult a doctor or psychologist. Although countless tests and questionnaires are offered on the internet, most of them are not sufficient to make a correct diagnosis.

Nevertheless, there are three main symptoms that occur in most cases.

Exhaustion: Affected people feel burnt out and extremely exhausted. They are often tired, overwhelmed and frustrated. Physical symptoms can also accompany this, such as headaches and gastrointestinal problems.

Reduced performance: Of course, performance also suffers from permanent exhaustion and excessive demands. This can manifest itself not only at work, but also in everyday activities such as household tasks. Affected people are usually very unfocused and unmotivated and see all activities more as a burden.

Alienation: All activities that have to be managed, such as work and private errands, are a burden. For example, one distances oneself from colleagues and one's own work. One becomes listless, is no longer responsible and is usually annoyed by the working conditions etc.. 

What are the causes? 

Similar to the symptoms, the causes are also very individual. Every person has a different stress threshold. Some people can hardly be shaken by an extremely stressful working week with a lot of overtime, others are already overwhelmed by a small additional task. Nevertheless, no one is completely protected from a burnout. 

The causes can be both external and internal circumstances. Common external causes are, for example, permanent excessive demands, time pressure, lack of recognition and conflicts at work with colleagues or managers. Internal causes can be extreme ambition, readiness to work and, in addition, the neglect of one's own needs. In the end, it is stress that is unmanageable. 

But there are not only psychological causes that can lead to a burnout. Chronic viral infections, micronutrient deficiencies and toxin exposure from chronic intestinal problems are examples of physical illnesses that can also be a cause. However, these are also closely related to the psyche and especially stress. 

How can a burnout be treated?

If you suspect a burnout, you should first consult your family doctor. In any case, it is important to seek professional treatment. A real burnout will not disappear on its own with a few tips from the internet. The earlier you act, the better your chances of a recovery. Basically, it is very important to admit the problem to yourself and to be willing to change your behaviour and break down thought patterns.

Therapy is very individual and is tailored to the needs of each person affected. Psychotherapy is almost always part of it. Autogenic training and stress medicine therapy are also possible. In some cases, such as depressive moods, medication is also prescribed. Behavioural therapy is used to break down behavioural patterns and unrealistic demands to oneself. Sport and a diet can also play a major role in healing. 

Therapies can take place on an outpatient, day-care or inpatient basis. This is all decided on an individual basis. The goal, of course, is always for those affected to relax again physically and mentally and to recognise the causes and background so that they can perceive the warning signs of the body and live more consciously and healthily again. 

Being aware of the risks and recognising warning signs is also important in advance so that burnout can, in the best case, even be prevented. More information on this and what you can do as an employer to protect your employees can be found in our next blog article next Wednesday. 
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