Burnout Due to Work NOT Medical Issue But Occupational Phenomenon, Clarifies WHO; Signs & Symptoms That Say ‘You Need a Break!’
Burnout is not a medical issue but an occupational phenomenon, says WHO in its clarification.
After calling "Burnout" a medical condition, the World Health Organization (WHO) backtracked on its statement. WHO offered its clarification after erroneously stating burnout would be included in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), a diagnosis manual for health conditions. Instead, burnout will be considered an occupational phenomenon. In the updated catalogue of ICD, “burnout” has been defined as “chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.” If you think you are suffering from burnout and it’s probably time to quit your job, here are some of the other symptoms of burnout you should watch out for. 5 Things That Make Indians Prone To Heart Diseases.
What is Burnout?
Burnout is a result prolonged stress at workplace, which affects your body and mind. The pressure to excel in one’s professional life has caused a burnout epidemic and a workaholic culture.
The syndrome has been defined by three prominent signs – exhaustion, negative feelings for one’s job and reduced efficiency or productivity at work.
Who Suffers from Burnout?
There’s always at one person at every office who would burn the midnight oil, staying back after everyone has left. People who belong to the Type A category of overachievers and workaholics are mostly at risk of suffering from burnout. Such people are rarely satisfied with their quality of work and constantly push themselves and others to excel. Video Gaming is as Addictive as Cocaine or Gambling, Declares World Health Organization.
According to Psychology.com, burnout is often seen in people who are high achievers who are rarely prepared for the consequences of overworking. These perfectionists are so passionate about work that they often ignore the signs their bodies are trying to give out.
They may work for long hours without realising, biting off more than what they can chew at work.
What are The Symptoms of Burnout?
Burnout is a state of being in permanent stress due to work. Most of the symptoms are not only psychological but also physical. Here are some of the symptoms of burnout.
Psychological symptoms include anxiety about work, depression and mood problems, social isolation, pessimism, outbursts of anger, inability to concentrate, forgetfulness, detachment from work, feelings of worthlessness, drug or alcohol use to cope and difficulty finding pleasure in any activity.
Physical symptoms of burnout include chronic fatigue, insomnia, chest pain, dizziness, fainting, headache, stomach ache, headaches, palpitations, shortness of breath, increased susceptibility to diseases, loss of appetite, etc.
If you see these signs of burnout, it’s time to take a break from work. You should start by weighing the pros and cons of the job. If you think the stress is overwhelming and is beyond your control, try taking a break from work. Reach out and speak to people who care. Instead of taking only about your work, focus on socialising with your coworkers.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 30, 2019 12:32 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).