Attention: increasing risk of burnout! How to protect yourself now!

Attention: increasing risk of burnout! How to protect yourself now!

Burnout is a topic that has increasingly come into the public eye in recent years. This refers to a state of chronic exhaustion that often occurs unnoticed and can lead to serious health consequences. People who are under high pressure in their professional lives, such as managers and specialists in social professions, are particularly at risk. These groups of people often struggle with constant time pressure and a high workload.

Recent statistics show a worrying increase in burnout cases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of people affected worldwide has doubled in the last ten years. In Germany, an estimated five to seven percent of adults suffer from this condition. How do the symptoms of burnout arise and how do you recognize them in good time?

Development and recognition of burnout

Burnout syndrome develops gradually and not overnight. Those affected often ignore the first signs and continue to work despite increasing fatigue and physical complaints. This can lead to a vicious circle in which both physical and psychological symptoms become more severe. According to the health insurance company AOK, people with burnout have a higher risk of developing other mental illnesses, such as depression or anxiety disorders.

The WHO officially recognized burnout as a separate disease in 2022. The main trigger is often located in the professional environment. However, personal stress factors also play an important role. Typical symptoms of burnout are persistent exhaustion, alienation from one's own work and reduced performance. These symptoms can be summarized as follows:

1. Gefühl der Erschöpfung und Müdigkeit: Betroffene fühlen sich oft energielos und leiden unter Schlafstörungen oder anderen körperlichen Beschwerden.
2. Entfremdung von der eigenen Tätigkeit: Die anfängliche Begeisterung für die Arbeit schwindet, und negative Emotionen gegenüber beruflichen Aufgaben werden stärker.
3. Verringerte Leistungsfähigkeit: Schwierigkeiten bei der Konzentration sind häufig, und gewohnte Aufgaben stellen eine enorme Herausforderung dar.

If you find that you are suffering from the symptoms mentioned, it is important to contact a doctor as early as possible. A specialist can not only evaluate the symptoms, but also suggest individual therapy. Possible treatment approaches include behavioral therapy measures and the analysis of stress-causing factors in the work environment.

Changes in work environment can also be helpful. Supporting colleagues or adjusting working conditions are steps that can reduce pressure. Psychological counseling can help to identify the causes of excessive demands and to develop approaches for effective coping. This valuable information was provided by Dr. Brunna Tuschen-Caffier, Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Freiburg, shared in an interview. She emphasizes how important it is to reflect on your own stress and, if necessary, seek help.

It is therefore essential to address such a serious topic in order to provide information about the dangers of burnout and to take timely measures for prevention and treatment. Those affected should know that they are not alone and can get help. For more information and support, reference can be made to specific health portals, such as www.fr.de. These offer numerous resources to better deal with the topic of burnout.