The shift to working from home has continued to make it possible for many employees to retain jobs while staying safe and preventing the spread of COVID-19, but it has also created challenges around stress at work and overall burnout.
What is Burnout?
According to Mayo Clinic, Job burnout is a special type of work-related stress — a state of physical or emotional exhaustion that also involves a sense of reduced accomplishment and loss of personal identity.
What Are the Symptoms?
Mayo Clinic goes on to ask a series of questions to identity if you are suffering from burnout. Here are a few of them:
- Have you become cynical or critical at work?
- Do you drag yourself to work and have trouble getting started?
- Have you become irritable or impatient with colleagues, customers or clients?
- Do you lack the energy to be consistently productive?
- Do you find it hard to concentrate?
- Do you lack satisfaction from your achievements?
- Do you feel disillusioned about your job?
- Have your sleep habits changed?
If you consistently suffer from any of these symptoms it may be possible that you are suffering from being burned out at work. Seeking medical guidance is always recommended when dealing with a change in health patterns.
What Are Some Things I Can Do From Home?
It is natural to feel hopeless when dealing with workplace burnout during a pandemic. The usual change of surroundings and social network isn’t as present for personal support. That being said, Mayo goes on to discuss several ways that you can remedy and cope with the daily challenges of being burned out:
- Evaluate your options. Discuss specific concerns with your supervisor. Maybe you can work together to change expectations or reach compromises or solutions. Try to set goals for what must get done and what can wait.
- Seek support. Whether you reach out to co-workers, friends, or loved ones, support and collaboration might help you cope. Take advantage of our Employee Assistance Program if you need to talk to someone.
- Try a relaxing activity. Explore programs that can help with stress such as yoga, meditation, or tai chi.
- Get some exercise. Regular physical activity can help you to better deal with stress. It can also take your mind off work.
- Get some sleep. Sleep restores well-being and helps protect your health.
- Mindfulness. Mindfulness is the act of focusing on your breath flow and being intensely aware of what you’re sensing and feeling at every moment, without interpretation or judgment. In a job setting, this practice involves facing situations with openness and patience, and without judgment.
Remember, pandemics always have an end, but that doesn’t mean that issues and feelings that you have during this time should go unchecked or unresolved. Remember to always be aware of changes to your personality, stamina or overall health. We are all in this together and wish the best for you and your families.
Article from Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/burnout/art-20046642