Do you feel tired or drained out at your work? Have you recently developed a new habit of putting off your work? If this is SO probably you are suffering from “Burout” Syndrome. Burnout, which emerged as a recognized medical syndrome some twelve years ago, in characterized by exhaustion on all levels physical, emotional and attitudinal. People with heavy responsibilities in regards to their occupation are more prone to suffer from this disease. Computer operators, Doctors, Pharmacist, are among the few who are affected the most. It is a very disabling disorder and if it goes unrecognized, then it can lead onto occasional catastrophic results. Failure to recognize the insidious signs of impending burnout and to take the steps necessary to alleviate the high level of continual pressures may culminate in impaired performance, fatigue, insomnia, depression, increased susceptibility to physical illness, alcoholism, chemical addiction and even suicide.

Every one of us once in a while, experiences one or more of the above mentioned symptoms as a result of burnout. These generally go away after a while without causing any emotional or physical damage to an individual. However, if they continue to persist and cause occupational emotional or physical impairment they should not be ignored. Catch them early and seek help.

Besides seeing a professional there are a few other things, which exercises on regular basis. Develop some hobby. Spend your leisure time away out doing something which you don’t do in your routine life. Avoid seeking the help of alcohol, sedatives or tranquilizers in order to seek temporary relief from burnout syndrome. Take vacation from your work and arrange holiday plans. Increase your social interactions going to Gurdwara on every weekend can be one of the ways to increase your social interactions, Talk and laugh in your leisure time and don’t let your professional responsibilities interfere in your leisure time.

The following quick self-test designed by Atlanta based psychiatrist Dr. Alfred Messer, can help you determine if you have the symptoms often associated with an impending burnout syndrome.

Article extracted from this publication >>  December 13, 1985