8 ways to beat burnout

Feeling drained? Make self-care a priority with these simple tips.


What’s so bad about burnout? This physical, mental and emotional state is caused by ongoing or repeated stress, explains Psychology Today. And when it happens, depression, fatigue, gastrointestinal problems and other challenging symptoms may set in. However, burnout isn’t always caused by your job duties or work environment: It can also be affected by your roles in your relationships, as a parent or as a caretaker. Your personality, thoughts and behaviors are a large part of what determines happiness — and they can be changed for the better, experts at the Mayo Clinic say.

Try these eight tips to help you recharge.

1

Get more sleep.

A good night’s sleep will give you more energy and a clearer mind to take on the day. The key to getting quality rest includes committing to a regular bedtime schedule, avoiding intense workouts a few hours before bedtime and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before resting. By getting enough sleep and finding a comfortable sleeping position, you can wake up invigorated and ready to start the day. If you have the opportunity, a power nap can be just the break you need.

2

Cross one thing off your list.

Have a daunting to-do list? Break it down. Smaller and more manageable lists can be great for stress and time management, and crossing something off gives you a boost in confidence. If lists aren’t your thing, think about setting an attainable, specific goal for the day.

3

Eat better.

What you decide to put into your body will change your mood, sleeping habits and energy. But don’t add additional stress by trying to completely change your diet; instead, just choose to eat healthy-ish. This includes adding some healthy components and portioning out any foods that bring you joy but may not be the best to consume in excess.

4

Exercise.

There is nothing like the natural endorphin boost you get from working out. The better you feel, the easier it is to make a change. Exercising takes you out of your head and gets your blood circulating. Even a short walk can get you outside and more mindful of your surroundings — a perfect way to clear your mind.

5

Check in with loved ones.

Focusing solely on work, school or specific relationships can often leave us feeling isolated or drained. Rekindle your connections with people who make you feel safe, appreciated and comfortable. Finding support from your loved ones is a great first step to start feeling better.

6

Get organized.

Something as simple as organizing one drawer in your kitchen can make you feel ready to take on the world. A clear living space or workspace can lead to a clear mind, which allows you to move forward without feeling like there is something in your way — both figuratively and literally.

7

Make time for yourself.

Sometimes the pressure we feel is something we have put on ourselves. Does it need to be done right now? Can you take care of it tomorrow? When burnout hits, it’s important to reset. Whether it’s savoring your favorite food or joining an activity with friends or family, take some time to treat yourself.

8

Consider connecting with a health coach.

If you feel like you need some additional support, you might benefit from a health coach who can help you achieve your goals around tobacco cessation, weight, stress, and eating habits. As a Sharp Health Plan member, you can enroll in free health coaching to reach your goals.

For more tips to help you cope with feeling overwhelmed, check out our “Overcome burnout” webinar.

Source: Sharp Health News