It’s been a while… A very long time actually!!

Do you know when a break is needed? Or have you been forced to take a break before? Whether its professional or personal

Well let me share and say this past holiday season I was forced. During this holiday, I experienced two deaths in my family one by suicide. As I thought about taking time off, here I am having to do so. Now what?? Let’s just say that burnout was fast approaching, and I mean fast. As a clinician I often express the importance of self-care and burnout prevention. Although if skills not utilized, we too can face burnout.

What is Burnout?

Burnout is the mental, emotional, and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress. It starts when one feels overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet demands. Many work professions are very demanding, such as human services. Prolonged stress (not your typical stress), working long hours (not making progress), unable to stay focus, sleepless nights etc all signs of burnout. In addition to feeling hopeless, resentful, and/or cynical. Untreated stressors can start to affect your body being susceptible to illness.

Signs & Symptoms of Burnout

Lack of Motivation           Taking frustrations on others      Reducing work hours/ skipping work       Procrastination Neglecting Responsibilities Isolating from others      Increased headaches    Sense of failure                 Appetite disturbance

Five Ways to avoid burnout…

• Identify boundaries: Learn how to say “no” to things that don’t align with your time. Saying no allows for opportunities that you like
• Take a break: You’re not a machine; stop!! Make time for a break during the day (Schedule if you need to) go for a walk, get up stretch, grab a bite to eat. It’s not healthy to consistently work non-stop.
• Unplug: Ditch your technology, cell phone, laptops. Remove yourself for a few hours or days; social media and emails will still be there when you return
• Rest & Relaxation: identify some relaxation techniques, such as Exercise, Yoga, Meditation etc.. Elect a consistent sleep pattern, take a shower These techniques will rejuvenate the mind and body for good health
• Clock Out: When it’s time to be off; BE OFF!! This can be difficult working from home and/or being an entrepreneur. Select office hours and stick to them