The typical symptoms of Burnout are similar but may vary among individuals
Simply stated, burnout is a depletion of energy accompanied by some or many of the symptoms listed on this page. Victims of burnout often spiral down quickly into states of body malfunction and chronic fatigue. Identifying symptoms enables you to overcome a common denial reaction that you are burned out. Typical burnout victims often feel “superhuman” and superior, thinking that they are doing a great job as they hurtle toward shut down.
| Inability to recall names, forgetting where you are going, decreased patience and increased irritation are all signs that signals are getting weak on your brain’s “information highway”. |
The severity of your own situation and symptoms may depend on the degree to which you have experienced extensive PHYSICAL, MENTAL and/or EMOTIONAL stress and what support you’ve had to deal with it.
Identifying your symptoms
| One of the greatest barriers to the self diagnosis of burnout is the depletion of important brain chemicals that would normally give you perspective on your situation and realization that your battery is running down. Others around you often see it clearly. Ask them! |
As you read through the list of symptoms below, which of these you are suffering from?
MILD
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Decreased energy • moody • sad • feel less healthy • unfocused • emotional • disappointed • confused • toss & turn at night • use caffeine/ sweets sometimes for a "lift" |
MODERATE
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Noticeable fatigue • change in weight • often use caffeine/sweets or pills for energy • feel stressed • less creative • frequently ill • insomnia • declining social activity • decreased sex drive • forgetfulness • headaches • allergies/asthma • shakiness • colitis/irritable bowel • back pain • muscle/joint aches • dizziness • decreased ability to exercise • dull skin and hair • difficulty building muscle • feel conflicted • isolated • guilty • short tempered • depressed • angry • lost sense of purpose • critical • use sleeping pills and/or antidepressants |
SEVERE
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Always exhausted • significant memory loss • often feel hopeless/helpless • shortness of breath • chest pains • don’t build muscle when working out • inability to sleep normally • high caffeine/alcohol/sugar intake • use of sleeping aids/energy stimulants/drugs • resistant and rigid behavior • detached • gastrointestinal problems • almost no social/sexual activity • feel emotionally numb • hostile • cynical • alienated • snappy • disoriented • dizzy • persistent anxiety • inappropriate outbursts • engage in risky activities • noticeable weight change • unhealthy blood pressure • diagnosis of a major illness such as heart disease/cancer |