How to Deal With Burnout

The demands of daily life-job, family, bills-can be a drain on anyone. Stress, exhaustion, depression and disinterest in normal activities for prolonged periods are the hallmarks of burnout. Burnout is avoidable, but learning to deal with it can help improve your present and future. Recognize the signs and deal with burnout.

Instructions

1. Admit that you're burned out. It's easy for a person to carry feelings devoid of emotion without addressing the actual problem. Listen to people close to you who express concern about your emotional or mental state.

2. Identify the reasons behind burnout. Being overwhelmed, being understimulated or feeling trapped at work can contribute to burnout. Experiencing internal and external pressure to do everything yourself can also cause burnout. Figure out what is causing the greatest amount of stress in your life.

3. Change what you can. If the burnout was prompted by job stress, consider asking superiors for different tasks or changing careers entirely. When stress is caused by family obligations, ask other family members to help manage the issues, or hire an outside provider to assist you.

4. Adopt a healthier lifestyle. Exercising, eating right and getting sufficient sleep will make you feel better physically and help combat the stress that leads to burnout. Schedule a regular time during the week to relax or take a vacation.

5. Spend time with other people socially. Whether it's family, co-workers or people in a community group, positive recreational contact with other people prevents isolation and reduces stress.

6. Reach out to someone close to you for support. Talking through your feelings with a supportive friend or partner can help you work through your stress and identify causes and solutions.