Burnout syndrome, which we hear many times in daily life, was first put forward by Herbert Freudenberger in 1984. It is the psychological and physical response of individuals under intense stress for a long time. Burnout syndrome manifests as a feeling of failure, dissatisfaction with one’s work, and being worn out and tired. The absence of a forward-looking goal or purpose makes it difficult to plan for the future. Because people with this syndrome do not think that anything they do in the future will save them from this situation.
If we collect its symptoms under headings, conditions such as hopelessness, pessimism, lack of attention, chronic fatigue, difficulty in focusing, forgetfulness, sleep disorder, eating disorder, stomach and bowel problems can be the clues that we have this syndrome.
Burnout syndrome consists of four stages.
- Enthusiasm phase (Enthusiasm)
In this stage, the individual who exhibits high hopes and unrealistic expectations generally exhibits a purposeful, energetic and active role. It pushes its own psychological and physical limits. After a while, he starts to feel sluggish and sluggish.
- Stagnation phase
The individual, whose desire and enthusiasm has decreased, begins to question his purpose at this stage. The job, profession or job that has dominated his whole life begins to bother him.
- Inhibition phase (Frustation)
The individual working on help and service becomes aware of the negative conditions and how difficult it is to change some patterns at this stage. That’s why he feels blocked.
- Phase of Indifference (Apathy)
In this stage, which is seen as the last stage, the individual feels disbelief, hopeless and emotionally detached. He accepts his duties not sincerely, but as a necessity. He is far from self-actualization because he is unhappy and bored. Depression often accompanies this phase.
In order to cope with the burnout syndrome, first of all, it is necessary to reach the source of the stressful situation. If we are faced with a professional burnout, it will be beneficial to reorganize the break times, limit the working hours, review the job description, spare time by creating interests outside of work, and making plans outside the routine.
In addition, the individual should reorganize his responsibilities and open up areas where he can seek help for situations and responsibilities that are more than his potential.
It is also recommended to deal with breathing exercises, meditation and sports in order to cope with the source of stress.
