Burnout is not always easy to recognize. It definitely affects more and more people. Burnout is one of the most exhausting mental illnesses which we know of. It can take a lot of time and really gets you 'ill'. If you have a burnout, it is not always easy to treat your exhausted and tense feeling. To check for yourself if you might have a burnout, you need the following information:
- What are the symptoms of a burnout?
- When can I consider something to be a burnout? What is the diagnosis?
- How can I treat a burnout?
This article will answer these questions one by one.
Burnout test? What are the symptoms of burnout?
The following symptoms might indicate a burnout:
- Exhausted feeling
- Feeling of emptiness
- Issues concentrating
- Loss of memory
- Feeling of hopelessness
- Lack of interest
- Difficulties experiencing joy
As opposed to depression, burnout is not caused by a lack of certain hormones, but rather by using one's brains too much. This means that you have done too much for a very long period of time.
Burnout test? When do we consider something to be a burnout? What is the diagnosis?
The DSM describes burnout not as burnout but rather as 'depression not otherwise specified'. This also indicates the similarities between depression and burnout. In general, the following rules go when it comes to diagnosing a certain illness:
- Symptoms have an influence on more than one area of life.
- Symptoms have been present for at least several weeks.
- Symptoms cause significant suffering.
A burnout can only be diagnosed by a doctor, so if you are looking for a diagnosis, it is best to go to your doctor for one.
Burnout test? How can I treat a burnout?
There are different ways in which one can treat a burnout. Some burnouts do only require a break to take a rest. Most burnouts, however, require more of an intensive approach. The most effective way of treating a burnout is by changing your habits into habits which are healthier for your mind and body. This change can be made by following therapy. This is something you can do with the help of a psychologist, or even at the hand of an online program. The online self-help program by 15 Minutes 4 Me is based on psychotherapeutic techniques, and helps reduce stress by an average 70% after one month (according to a study published in the Artsenkrant, 2011).
Burnout test? Take the free burnout test!
Would you like to know if you experience certain symptoms of burnout or to what extent you experience discomfort because of those? Then take the free online burnout test here!
