I have a confession to share — or maybe it’s not that surprising to those who know me well. I thrive on being busy, balancing on the fine line between being productively engaged and overwhelmed.
Generally, this isn’t a huge issue for me. I believe that growth often requires some stress to push us toward improvement. However, there’s a tipping point, and I’ve learned that I often feel the pressure to keep producing. My fear is that if I stop writing, the opportunities will dwindle, which may hold some truth but is exaggerated in my mind.
Saying “no” has never been my strong suit.
Before the heightened violence against Asian Americans and my own experience with online harassment, I started to feel an inexplicable heaviness, as if I were always on the verge of tears. My life was, by many standards, fulfilling. Yet, I felt a constant wave of sadness washing over me.
After reducing my workload, that feeling dissipated temporarily. But then the news became overwhelming, particularly following the troubling events in Atlanta, and I found myself crying more than ever. I’d embrace my children while sobbing, likely leaving them confused and worried.
What is Burnout?
Burnout can often be misconstrued as a lack of creativity or productivity, but it can also present itself physically, like an unending stream of tears. Burnout is defined as exhaustion stemming from chronic and significant stress. This can stem from work or personal life and has detrimental effects on both our health and social interactions.
Typically, burnout manifests as feeling perpetually overwhelmed and unable to meet obligations. As mental, emotional, and physical fatigue increases, interest in previously enjoyable activities wanes.
The Detrimental Effects of Burnout
The insidious nature of burnout means it seeps into every aspect of life. It can affect your personal, social, and professional spheres while potentially causing lasting changes to your health. A weakened immune system makes you more prone to illnesses, and you may feel drained, unproductive, and even resentful. If your energy dips to the point of affecting daily life — you might be experiencing burnout.
Signs You Might Be Burned Out
If you’ve found yourself searching for answers to questions like “Why am I crying all the time?” or “Why do I feel so exhausted?” it might be time to consider that you’re facing burnout. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Chronic Exhaustion: What starts as fatigue can escalate into complete depletion.
- Feelings of Dread: Each day feels burdensome, and getting out of bed becomes a struggle.
- Insomnia: Sleep issues may progress from occasional difficulty to an inability to sleep, even when exhausted.
- Inability to Focus: You may find it hard to concentrate, remember vital details, or complete tasks.
- Heightened Irritability: If small annoyances trigger significant reactions, burnout might be the culprit.
- Physical Symptoms: Chest pain, headaches, or stomach issues should prompt a consult with a medical professional.
- Apathy and Hopelessness: You may feel stuck in a cycle of despair, seeing no purpose in activities.
- Decline in Performance: An overwhelming workload can lead to missed deadlines and poor reviews.
What to Do If You’re Experiencing Burnout
Seek Help: Talk to friends, family, or professionals about your feelings. Sharing your burden can lead to relief.
Reassess Priorities: Establish boundaries regarding work and remove toxic influences. Take breaks; sometimes, stepping back is necessary.
Focus on Self-Care: Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and physical activity. Regular exercise can boost your mood and overall health.
If you ever feel that your situation is overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. You can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline for help.
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In summary, recognizing the signs of burnout is crucial for your well-being. Prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and seek support when needed to manage stress effectively.