Many will identify with the description of collective burnout just now, not only in the context of work but also in our roles as parents, homemakers, carers, even friends. Never in recent times have we faced so much psychological deprivation for so long, nor have we suddenly had to learn to keep going while behaving in completely new ways. It’s not a surprise, therefore, if we’re feeling drained. But is a week’s holiday enough to sort things out? It will certainly confer immediate benefits, because recipients will feel understood and valued. It’s also likely to increase company loyalty: Bradford Wilcox at the University of Virginia in the US found giving unexpected gifts, particularly gifts that suggest the donor considered the recipient’s needs and point of view, predicts happier relationships.
How to deal with collective burnout telegraph.co.uk - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from telegraph.co.uk Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.