ARE YOU SUFFERING FROM BURNOUT?

Be aware of the signs.

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SIGNS OF BURNOUT
As the end of the year approaches, you may start feeling more tired and less motivated. While this is normal when you’ve been studying, working and/or parenting, it’s important to be aware of the signs of burnout, a more serious form of tiredness:

- Feeling exhausted
- Inability to sleep
- Difficulty concentrating and decreased productivity
- Mood changes (irritability, social withdrawal, anxiety)
- Physical changes (headaches, stomach aches, muscle pain)
- Falling ill frequently (the sign of a stressed immune system).

Sustained self-care is what is needed. Eat balanced meals with healthy snacks in between, stay hydrated, exercise regularly and get enough quality sleep. These will all help to replenish your ‘energy tanks’. Also take regular breaks from your work – a quick walk outdoors is a great way to disconnect for a short while. If, after being more mindful of these lifestyle factors, you still feel exhausted and overwhelmed, speak to your doctor.

Text: Shani Tsai
Photos: Gallo/Getty Images
Illustrations: Flaticon