Introduction & Theoretical Background
Most people go through periods where they feel tired or unhappy at work. However, if your job leaves you feeling emotionally exhausted, beyond the point of caring, or unable to function normally, you might be experiencing burnout. Key signs of burnout include:
- Feeling exhausted and drained – emotionally, mentally, and physically.
- Becoming more distant, disinterested, or detached from your work.
- Finding it difficult to cope with the demands of your job.
- Losing interest in your colleagues, customers, or activities outside of work.
- Having an increasingly negative, cynical, or pessimistic attitude towards your work.
- Feeling less productive, enthusiastic, or effective in your role.
- Struggling to concentrate, remember things, and pay attention.
- Problems with your mood, sleep, or health (e.g., headaches or stomach pains).
Research studies have shown that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a helpful psychological therapy for burnout. CBT therapists work a bit like firefighters: while the fire is burning they’re not so interested in what caused it, but