Burnout Syndrome: Understanding Its Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Burnout Syndrome is increasingly affecting professionals around the world, especially in high-pressure jobs. Learn about its causes, symptoms, and the treatment options available to those struggling with this occupational syndrome. Take proactive steps for mental well-being before burnout takes over.

I've also published this material on my website.

Portuguese: https://linuxelite.com.br/pt/blog/burnout/

English: https://linuxelite.com.br/blog/burnout/

The Hectic World and the Impact of Burnout Syndrome

In an increasingly fast-paced world, with more information being bombarded into our eyes and ears, every day we find ourselves caught in demanding and stressful routines. One of the heaviest burdens we carry is our work and jobs. Although routines are necessary, they demand more and more from us.

While some people may have the privilege of choosing what they want to work with, most people have to wake up very early, take crowded public transportation, and work all day in a job that has nothing to do with their tastes and aptitudes. Such a routine is certainly unhealthy for anyone, but unfortunately, it’s what most of us have to do. After all, there are bills to pay, and someone has to put food on the table every day.

But now, I ask you this: Are you feeling stressed at work? Have you been experiencing some anxiety, a lack of motivation when waking up, and sometimes a sense of complete exhaustion, as if there’s no energy left in your body? Pay attention, because this might be related to Burnout Syndrome, or what is also known as occupational burnout.

This is a very serious issue, and you might be going through an early or even advanced stage of this syndrome and not even realize it. Stay tuned, okay?

What is Burnout Syndrome?

The term Burnout comes from the English word that is related to the idea of something no longer working due to lack of energy — like “burning out” or “exhaustion.” This disorder is primarily emotional, and it is often confused with other serious issues, such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic attacks.

Normally, this disorder is more associated, but by no means exclusive, to professionals who face high levels of competitiveness and intense routines, like journalists, teachers, police officers, firefighters, and doctors. However, Burnout Syndrome is not exclusive to these professions.

According to the National Institute of Social Security (INSS), work leave cases due to Burnout have increased by nearly 1% over the last decade. In 2023, 421 Brazilians were away from work due to Burnout, the highest number in the last 10 years.

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on people’s mental health. According to the Pan American Health Organization, the global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by 25% in the first year of the pandemic. This surge in stress and anxiety is directly related to the increase in Burnout cases.

The World Health Organization’s recognition of Burnout as an occupational syndrome was a key factor in raising awareness about the issue. Moreover, the heightened demands on workers, combined with increased competition in the job market, intensified the pressure on the working population.

The Rise in Diagnoses and Recognition

Today, Burnout is more recognized than ever, and this progress in diagnosis is also a result of better access to information. However, the increase in diagnoses is also due to the fact that many workers face higher levels of pressure and competitiveness in the workplace, which leads to increased stress.

Contributing Factors to Burnout

The rise in Burnout diagnoses can be explained by three main factors:

1. Better Access to Information: People now have more access to information and the formal recognition of work-related syndromes.

2. Increased Organizational Pressure: Pressure within companies has increased, with more demands and competition in the job market.

3. Difficulty in Diagnosis: Often, people experiencing Burnout are misdiagnosed with other disorders, such as anxiety or panic attacks.

External Stimuli: The Pandemic and “Quiet Quitting”

The pandemic also triggered a rise in Burnout cases as many people were forced to quickly adapt to remote work with few resources. This stress generated by the rapid adaptation and lack of preparation contributed to the increase in Burnout symptoms.

In addition, a post-pandemic phenomenon called quiet quitting led many highly educated young people to quit their jobs due to exhaustion.

Identifying the Symptoms of Burnout

Now that we’ve talked about the causes, it’s important to know how to identify the symptoms of Burnout, which can manifest in many ways. To be diagnosed with Burnout, the patient must exhibit at least one of the following:

1. Emotional Exhaustion: The worker feels they no longer have the energy to face their tasks or even the workday.

2. Depersonalization: Losing feelings toward colleagues and clients. The person begins to see others as “objects” rather than people.

3. Reduced Professional Accomplishment: Feelings of incompetence and low self-esteem regarding one’s own work.

Physical and Emotional Symptoms

Symptoms can be categorized as:

- Physical: Persistent fatigue, insomnia, muscle aches, headaches, gastrointestinal symptoms, and changes in appetite.

- Cognitive: Difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, and a sense of mental exhaustion.

- Emotional: Depression, irritability, demotivation, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, and heightened anxiety symptoms.

How to Treat Burnout

Burnout is treatable! Don’t despair. The first step is to seek professional help, such as from psychologists or psychiatrists. Treatment can include:

- Therapy: Individualized therapy to address emotional and behavioral aspects.

- Medication: In some cases, medications like anxiolytics or antidepressants may be necessary.

- Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, good sleep, and leisure activities are essential for recovery.

The Role of Companies in Prevention

Companies also play a crucial role in preventing Burnout. Changes in organizational culture, such as reducing pressure on employees, setting more balanced goals, and focusing on collective well-being, can help prevent worker burnout.

Conclusion

Burnout is not something trivial nor something to be ignored. It can have a profound impact on people’s mental and physical health. So, if you’re identifying with these symptoms, seek professional help. If you know someone who is going through this, be empathetic and help them seek support.

Taking care of mental health has never been more important. Don’t let work stress and overwork become an insurmountable obstacle to your life and well-being.

References:

- BBC News Brasil

- World Health Organization

- National Institute of Social Security (INSS)