Job Burnout Is A Widespread Problem

Burnout is a widespread problem.  According to the Mayo Clinic, job burnout is a type of job stress in which you might feel physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausted.  We all might occationally experience job burnout, question our career choice, and the value of our contribution at work.  However, these are the top ten occupations where burnout tends to occur at a higher rate than others.

                        1.   Physician                                   6.   Attorney
                        2.   Nurse                                         7.   Police Officer
                        3.   Social Worker                           8.   Public Accounting
                        4.   Teacher                                      9.   Fast Food
                        5.   School Principal                       10.  Retail

These are not the only professions where burnout is possible but rather a few examples of career fields where burnout seems to be fairly common.  According to a USA Today article, workplace burnout is up across the board, partly due to economic conditions but largely related to work environment and the nature of the work itself.  Experiencing burnout is a real struggle regardless of the occupation.  There are warning signs of burnout.  Working long hours causes exhaustion and a feeling of elevated stress levels that can lead to feeling unappreciated or devalued.  
According to HeathGuide.com whether you recognize the warning signs of impending burnout or you’re already past the breaking point, trying to push through the exhaustion and continuing as you have been will only cause further emotional and physical damage (Oct. 2019).  Instead, pause and change direction by learning how you can help yourself overcome burnout and feel healthy and positive again.

Dealing with burnout requires
the “Three R” approach: 
 Recognize – Watch for the warning signs of burnout 
Reverse – Undo the damage by seeking support and managing stress  
​Resilience – Build your resilience to stress by taking care of 
 your physical and emotional health
​ - HealthGuide.com, (oct2019)​

Burnout is an undeniable sign that something important in your life is not working. Take time to think about your hopes, goals, and dreams. Are you neglecting something that is truly important to you? This can be an opportunity to rediscover what really makes you happy and to slow down and give yourself time to rest, reflect, and heal.

For more information about burnout and social and emotional skills - Click on the links below.

Dealing With Burnout

SEL Enhances Mental Health

Burnout - SEL for Teachers