Changed sleep habits
Recognizing the signs of burnout is the first step to addressing it, says Steginus.
That s important, because studies point to significant health concerns if burnout isn’t addressed. For example, some research has found that burnout can considerably increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure. A study published in October 2017 in
PLoS One found links between burnout and gastrointestinal issues, prolonged fatigue, higher pain levels, respiratory problems, insomnia, musculoskeletal pain, and even a shorter life span.
As Steginus notes, burnout doesn t just affect you, either. The old adage “You can’t pour from an empty cup” applies here if you’re completely depleted, it makes it much harder, if not impossible, to take care of those around you. “Burnout has a ripple effect,” she says.