How to know if you're suffering from mid-year burnout
When it's the middle of the year and you already feel like you've had enough, it might be mid-year burnout.
As we're entering the winter months in South Africa, you might be asking yourself if that's the reason you're constantly tired, irritable, and maybe even a little depressed.
Although winter can bring its fair share of negative physical and emotional baggage, that might not be the only reason you’re feeling down.
South Africa's winter also falls right in the middle of the year, a time when many people suffer from mid-year burnout.
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According to the World Health Organization, burnout is a "syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed."
While the definition focuses on work, burnout doesn't always clock out when you leave the office.
"Burnout can be described as any feelings of prolonged lethargy or a lack of motivation or pleasure when doing something you previously enjoyed," warns Johannesburg-based psychologist Tamara Sosa.
According to Huisgenoot, Sosa warns that burnout can creep into your personal life.
Alexandria Emergency Hospital stresses the importance of knowing the difference between "sleepy" and "tired."
"Sleepy" is something that can be resolved by simply getting the required amount of sleep.
"Tired," on the other hand, comes with being burned out.
Alexandria Emergency Hospital describes it as "feeling fatigued and lacking the energy to complete basic daily tasks."
These factors can lead to mid-year burnout:
- Poor sleeping habits
- Lack of a nutritious diet
- Minimal physical activity
- Increased stress (especially at work)
- Excessive alcohol and drug use
Here are ways you can try to fight mid-year burnout:
Johannesburg psychologist Tamara Sosa suggests that winter might be a good time to relook at and tweak the resolutions you made at the beginning of the year. Get rid of certain things if they no longer serve you.
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Taking a break is also very important, and although a long holiday isn't always possible, taking smaller, impactful breaks, like walking your dog or spending time with family and friends, can also help.
Here are more ways to fight mid-year burnout:
- Take short breaks
- Plan your downtime
- Stay organised
- Avoid smoking
- Limit added sugar
- Drink more water
- Connect with family and friends
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