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The Companion Advisor:
Taxes & EstatesBurnout: How to Recognize it and What to Do Does the word "burnout" mean anything to you? Of course it does. At some point, we have all known someone-a colleague, spouse or friend-who's been afflicted by this modern-day ailment. Anyone who's had a burnout has said the same thing: "If I'd only known, I would've done something sooner ." It is possible to prevent or considerably reduce the negative repercussions of a burnout. But to do so, you must be able to recognize the symptoms and take action! It's No Laughing Matter! First, there are some distinctions to be made. Just because someone's been "out of sorts," even for a few weeks, doesn't mean they're suffering from burnout. It's normal to feel depressed from time to time. Problems at work, a separation or bereavement cause emotional upheaval at work. They are normal events that must be taken in stride. It' the degree of intensity, in particular, that distinguishes nervous depression-and burnout specifically-from a simple case of "the blues". A burnout causes someone to become depressed (sad) or anxious to the point that it affects everything he or she does. This state persists for several weeks without any apparent sign of recovery. Loss of appetite and interest in a favorite pastime, disrupted sleep patterns, and depression are common. At work, irritability is also indicative. People suffering from burnout often overreact to events. In some cases, anxiety can manifest itself as respiratory problems, panic attacks, or even hyperventilation. Getting Help If burnout is suspected, the worst thing is to do nothing. When one realizes that something is wrong, it's important to act. The first step is to consult a physician. Remember: doctors are qualified to evaluate your health status and determine what medical care is appropriate for a given situation. In some cases, the services of a health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, may also be advisable. Most large companies have employee assistance programs that provide hours of free telephone consultations with a qualified psychologist, available 24/7 in complete confidentiality. A real lifesaver for some, these programs provide a practical perspective toward prevention. Someone can slip into depression without fully realizing it. It may be more obvious to that person's co-workers, who see him or her deteriorating or at the 'receiving end' of uncontrollable mood swings. If the opportunity arises, it's a good idea to talk to the person and ask how things are. Sometimes just a few well-placed words are all it takes to make someone realize somethings wrong. Adaptation and Work What causes burnout? From a medical point of view, burnout is defined as adaptation problems combined with inhibitions at work. Two words are significant in this definition: adaptation and work. Something isn't right and is manifesting itself in the workplace. There are several things that can cause burnout, such as overwork, lack of recognition, conflict with a colleague, etc. Every job has its own special problems and stress factors. Burnout is the result of a person's inability to adapt to difficult circumstances. Over time, this inability, which is persistent and insidious, drains the person's energy. A Third of All Disability Cases Get to know yourself. Some people are better at dealing with adversity than others, and we don't all have the same genetic predisposition. Major depression, for instance, is more common in some families than in others. Also, depending on whether it occurs alone or with other situations (separation, overwork, job conflicts, etc.), a given event may not have the same impact. Over a third of all disability claims received annually by Desjardins Financial Security stem from mental health problems. Mental illness has risen steadily since the beginning of the 1980s. Burnout is one of these modern illnesses. Notice:
Fiscal Agents Financial Services Group are not engaged in rendering tax, accounting
or legal professional services or advice. The comments in this article are not
intended, nor should they be relied upon, to replace specific professional advice.
Before acting on material contained herein. Readers should seek advice that
is appropriate to their personal circumstances from a professional advisor.
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, Fiscal Agents Money Management Newsletter
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