Burnout

What is burnout?

Burnout is a type of stress, often associated with work, that causes you to become worn down. While common, ongoing burnout can lead to significant problems with your emotional well-being and physical health. 

When not addressed, burnout can contribute to depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and numerous other health conditions. See the Doran team if you’re feeling physically, mentally, or emotionally drained and need relief. 

What are the symptoms of burnout?

Symptoms often linked to burnout include:

• Fatigue
• Feeling empty, hopeless, or useless
• Feeling undervalued at work
• Ongoing or extreme stress
• Irritability, lack of patience, or anger
• Sadness
• Difficulty focusing
• Reduced job satisfaction or productivity
• Feeling let down by your job
• Substance misuse 
• Problems sleeping
• Doubts about your abilities or skills
• Feeling drained and worn down
• Headaches, bowel problems, stomachaches, or other aches and pains

Burnout increases your risk of mental health conditions, though burnout itself isn't a diagnosable mental health disorder. 

What may increase the risk of burnout?

Burnout might be caused by:

• Excessive commitments
• Lack of sleep
• Lack of clarity or control
• Poor work-life balance
• Lack of support at home or work
• Conflicts with other people
• Family dynamic changes
• Too little downtime
• Working long hours
• Heavy workloads
• Physical health problems

Addressing the root cause of burnout is crucial to achieving optimal physical and mental well-being. It can enhance interpersonal relationships, mood, and workplace or school performance.

How is burnout diagnosed?

The Doran experts complete a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to determine if you’re experiencing burnout or mental health conditions linked to it. They use DSM-5-TR criteria to discuss your stress level, mood, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors — and establish the most appropriate treatment. 

How is burnout treated?

Managing burnout may involve cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), other forms of therapy, medication management, lifestyle adjustments, or a combination of treatments. Social support, sleep, and stress management — such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga, time spent outdoors, regular exercise, and massage — are highly beneficial.

Your Doran specialist follows up virtually or in person to ensure relief from burnout and improvements in your physical and mental well-being.

Schedule an in-person or telehealth burnout evaluation today at Doran by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.