Burnout Has Officially Been Recognized as a Legitimate Syndrome
-
November 23, 2020
-
120 Views
Workplace 'burn-out' has become a serious health issue in the modern age, it's now been officially listed by the World Health Organisation as an 'occupational syndrome'. As per the latest revision of the International Classification of Diseases (2019). WHO has for the first time directly linked burnout in its classification of diseases as a work hazard.
It is characterized by three dimensions:
- Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion.
- Feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job.
- Reduced professional efficacy.
The WHO says it is a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It occurs when you feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands.
Even several studies have shown that work stress is the major source of burnout which has escalated progressively over the past few decades.
The following simple ways can help reduce work stress
Exercise daily
A study found that exercise was an effective way to get your mind off your stressful thoughts and also eliminating depression. Exercise lifts your mood, increases energy and sharpens focus. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes of activity at least 3 to 4 days a week if not daily or just go for a walk daily. Physical activities help to de-stress faster.
Have a sound sleep
Stress has long been linked to chronic insomnia. Hence the inability to sleep has been identified as a symptom of stress. Researchers at Harvard Medical School found that poor sleep may actually be a contributing factor. Because you can't operate at peak performance without the regenerative effects of proper sleep. Hence aim to have a sound sleep of 6 to 8 hours.
Heathy Eating
Ever heard the phrase "eat your feelings"? It's a real phenomenon. People who are feeling down or otherwise stressed always reach for food several times a day to soothe negative feelings. Because it may lead to a feeling of emptiness or an emotional void. Many people consider eating to be a way to fill that void. But in reality, it only creates a false feeling of fullness. Avoid sugar or fat-laden foods like pizza, burgers, and ice cream because it makes you feel lethargic. It's important to eat healthy foods that fuel our brains and support concentration and focus, like foods high in fibre like fruits and vegetables.
As work from home becomes the new normal, employee burnout is on the rise. There have been instances of them facing ‘burnout’ because of repeated anxiety issues. You can keep negative work stress at bay with above mentioned simple steps to follow and avoid burnouts. Remember, a certain amount of healthy stress in the workplace is a good thing. Experts has made a distinction between eustress (good) and distress (bad). They point out that eustress is necessary for individuals and companies to grow. Because it always keeps you motivated and helps you cross the finish line. But always draw a line between professional and personal life.