Psychologists named 8 unusual symptoms of burnout

The frantic rhythm of modern life, the search for self, the desire for new achievements, and the constant care of loved ones: all of this has become the present for most people in the world and is taken for granted. However, sometimes irritability or chronic fatigue arises out of the blue, and we cannot explain it. If we exclude problems in the body, then doctors often talk about emotional burnout, which can affect not only the psyche but also physical health.

Burnout can be caused by different reasons, so its symptoms may vary. Everyday Health, after consulting with psychologists, told us what to look for in order not to miss emotional exhaustion.

It is generally accepted that burnout is caused by hard and exhausting work. However, it can also be caused by other factors, such as repetitive daily childcare responsibilities or a chronic illness. And while burnout is not a medical diagnosis, it can lead to a deterioration in physical and psychological well-being in everyday life.

Since burnout can lead to health problems in the long run, it is very important to recognize and deal with it in time. So what are the symptoms that can indicate that you are burned out?

Problems with sleep

As a rule, people suffering from burnout have trouble sleeping. At the same time, constant insomnia can provoke emotional burnout as you are not able to work and think well if you are not fully rested.

Pessimism

People experiencing burnout can be pessimistic. Sometimes this mood extends not only to the cause of burnout but also to other areas of life. Some research suggests that you may be too irritable and not see a purpose or even a meaning in life.

Headache or abdominal pain

Pain can accompany numerous problems in the body, but if you experience headaches or abdominal pain for a long time without a cause, it may be a sign of burnout.

In this case, the headache may be caused by psychological stress. In addition, according to the American Psychological Association, stress also often causes stomach problems, such as nausea or bloating.

Weight gain

Experts say that weight gain can be the result of burnout. This is due to a combination of reasons, such as the production of cortisol (a stress hormone), lack of sleep, depression, and changes in food preferences.

Research suggests that high levels of cortisol produced during chronic stress may be associated with a higher likelihood of being overweight and obese, which in turn can lead to health problems.

Decreased body defenses

If you've started to get SARS more often, you should pay attention to your emotional state and rule out burnout. It is well known that chronic stress causes inflammation in the body and reduces the level of immunity, without which a person cannot quickly and efficiently cope with viruses and bacteria.

Isolation

Emotional burnout can lead not only to physical manifestations but also cause a deterioration in social relationships. Since a person does not see the purpose and value of their life, they may isolate themselves from others and avoid socializing.

In fact, seclusion will not help you get rid of stress and will only exacerbate the symptoms of burnout, so you should try to maintain healthy relationships with family and friends.

Muscle pain

When you're stressed, your muscles automatically tighten in preparation for protecting yourself from pain and injury. Chronic tension during burnout leads to pain in the back, shoulders, neck, and head.

Abuse of food, alcohol, or drugs

In some cases, a person cannot properly assess their condition and find relief. They may seek solace in excessive amounts of food, alcohol, or drugs because they provide instant relief. In fact, these actions cannot help with burnout. They only make the situation worse.

As you can see, there are many ways to indicate emotional burnout, and you shouldn't ignore them. A timely visit to a specialist will help you understand the causes of chronic stress and eliminate them in effective ways without harming your health.

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