Burnout

Burnout is a physical and emotional exhaustion, triggered by constant tension and daily stress. The symptoms are manifold, whereby all physical complaints can also be psychosomatic:

Psychological complaints:

• Not being able to relax and recover (state of alarm)
• Circling thoughts
• Depression
• Concentration problems
• Addiction
• Chronic pain

Physical complaints:

• Sleep disorders, sleep apnea syndrome, chronic fatigue
• Gastrointestinal complaints
• Tinnitus
• Frequent infections
• Vascular diseases
• Increased risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attacks and cardiovascular diseases
• Stress hormone imbalance, cortisone deficiency
• Loss of libido, menstrual disorders, childlessness
• Feeling of weakness
• Hypothyroidism
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Chronic pain

In the case of burnout syndrome, it is important to research the cause and exclude secondary, mostly internal diseases. There are different stages of the disease, which of course must first be recognized in order to intervene therapeutically. As with any other disease, the earlier therapy begins, the better the chances of recovery.

Patients need a complex therapeutic intervention – by the general practitioner and/or specialist and, if necessary, by a psychologist. Behavioral therapy is often a good help for burnout sufferers. Patients must learn to cut back, to concentrate on the essential things, to say “no” sometimes. Taking time out can help people to reorganize their lives. It is also important to recognize that we are valuable, even when we reach our limits. The illness can be seen as an opportunity to reshape one’s own life. And the inner attitude also contributes a lot to individual well-being.

Therapeutic strategies for burnout syndrome:

• Better management of one’s own strengths
• Learn anti-stress rituals and use them regularly
• Learning to say “no”
• Make enough time for sports and hobbies
• Pay attention to your work-life balance
• Switch off after the working day
• Schedule time for breaks
• Take time off if necessary