The ongoing pandemic has only increased the stress that comes with professional life. As more and more people continue to deal with work pressure on one hand and a health crisis on the other, mental and physical exhaustion is becoming common. You may also know it as burnout. The term, coined in the 1970s by American psychologist Herbert Freudenberge, is used to denote severe stress and its aftermath. In 2019, burnout was recognized as an “occupational phenomenon” by the World Health Organization.
In the current situation, female professionals juggling work and house chores are said to be the most affected. Feeling a sense of emptiness or impending doom, constant pressure, conflict and physical exhaustion could be a few of its several symptoms. If you, too, have been experiencing a consistent lack of energy, there are certain things that can help you deal with burnout. Read on to find out how you can deal with this situation.
Image Credits: Instagram/Kareena Kapoor Khan
1. Work With A Routine
Getting out of bed right before work seems like fun but your brain needs some time to transition. Your commute may be restricted from the bedroom to the living room but setting some ground rules when working from home can help regain a bit of normalcy.
2. Take A Break
Burnout affects both your physical and mental well-being. Knowing that, it’s important to take a breather when required. Add short breaks to your daily schedule—give yourself a day off from work or take a week’s time to relax—everything is valid.
Image Credits: Instagram/ Sonam Kapoor Ahuja
3. Stop Doom Scrolling
Are you one to thumb through your social media feed all the time? You could be doom scrolling, i.e., using your excessive screen time to consume negative news. In times like these, it could end up exaggerating your worries. The best way to stop and save yourself from mental exhaustion is to limit screen time. It could be slightly difficult at first but there is an array of things you can do when not hooked to a screen.
4. Prioritize Interests and Self-Care
Which brings us to our next point. All work and no play can get super dull. Have a hobby that really helps you relax? Make some time for it and see the difference. Like skincare? Try out that face mask. In case you are still figuring out what works best for you, don’t sweat it. It’s not a competition, just do what makes you happy.
Image Credits: Instagram/Alia Bhatt
5. Get Enough Sleep
Hustle culture may have promoted running on caffeine sans any sleep but, trust us, that won’t take you far. Clock in the time you need to rest because your body (and mind) could use it after a day of hard work. Whether you are facing burnout or not, getting enough sleep is crucial, so the time to put the phone away is RN.
6. Speak With A Professional
It goes without saying that if you still feel like you are facing symptoms of burnout, even after trying to cope with it, talking to a certified mental health professional will be a great help. Taking that first step can be slightly challenging but, remember, you got this!
Lead Image Credits: iStock and Instagram/Janhvi Kapoor
