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Nearly three in five employees experienced heightened burnout rates in 2021 alone, according to findings from the American Psychological Association’s recent Work and Well-being Survey, highlighting the need for proactive measures and better mental health care. Based in La Jolla, California, board-certified psychiatrist Sylvia Cartwright, MD, provides individualized support and guidance for professional burnout via telehealth. Call her office today or schedule a telepsychiatry visit online to learn more.
What is professional burnout?
Professional burnout is a type of work-related exhaustion that doesn’t resolve after a good night’s sleep or a relaxing vacation. It causes deep fatigue and stress, affecting your work performance, relationships, mental well-being, and physical health.
Recognizing the early signs of professional burnout is crucial for taking proactive steps to minimize its effect on your professional and personal life.
Through telehealth care with Dr. Cartwright, you can receive comprehensive mental health treatment from the comfort of your personal location. This virtual approach ensures you can address professional burnout without the stress of commuting, finding parking, and giving up valuable time at work or home.
What are the signs of professional burnout?
Professional burnout symptoms vary widely and can be subtle. Telltale signs include:
- Poor work performance
- Low motivation
- Difficulty completing tasks
- Rapid heart rate or palpitations
- Anxiety and/or depression
- Insomnia or excessive sleep
- Fatigue
- Dependence on alcohol or drugs
- Headaches
- Digestive issues (nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea)
- Weight changes
When you’re burnt out professionally, those feelings can seep into your personal life. Seeking mental health care at the first sign of burnout can help prevent these symptoms from having long-lasting effects on your physical and mental health.
Can anybody get professional burnout?
Professional burnout doesn’t discriminate based on occupation. Anybody can develop burnout at any stage of their career. Possible causes can include:
- Work-life imbalance
- High-stress job
- Heavy workload
- Lack of control over work decisions
- Changes in management or leadership
- High turnover
- Helping roles (health care, social work, education, etc.)
- Inadequate resources
- Unclear expectations
- Financial stress or insecurity
- Lack of recognition or praise
- Toxic work environment
Individuals with professional burnout frequently experience a combination of these factors. Burnout is multifaceted and constantly evolving. Improving one area of your work life doesn’t necessarily guarantee immediate relief from burnout.
What strategies can help me manage professional burnout?
After a complete diagnostic consultation, Dr. Cartwright works with you closely to develop personalized strategies for managing professional burnout, which may include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (changing negative thoughts and behavioral patterns)
- Insight-oriented therapy (focusing on exploring your thoughts in-depth)
- Medication management
- Psychodynamic therapy (fostering self-awareness)
- Stress reduction techniques
- Mindfulness
Dr. Cartwright’s guidance and support can help you navigate professional burnout challenges, allowing you to regain control over your professional and personal life. Call Sylvia Cartwright, MD, today or schedule a telepsychiatry appointment online to learn more.