There’s no doubt about it: 2020 has been weird. Many of us have been affected by major changes such as the loss of a job this year, but even those who have not experienced job loss have experienced disruption.

If you’ve been working from home, you may find your work/life boundaries slipping, making burnout more likely. Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga offers some insight about the topic.

What Is Burnout?

Burnout isn’t actually a medical condition, but it does have many different health effects. Officially, burnout is described as “a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress.”

Burnout can be the result of many different factors, including your work, personal relationships and caregiving. Anything that leaves you feeling stressed for a period of time can contribute to feeling burned out, so it’s important to find ways to manage stress effectively.

Symptoms of Burnout

• Fatigue
• Frequent headaches
• GI issues
• Change in appetite
• Diminished sleep quality
• More frequent illness
• Lack of motivation
• Increased cynicism

How Can I Manage Stress Effectively?

Stress is a reality for all of us. And when we face it in small doses, it can actually be a good thing, motivating us to get things done. But too much stress—especially unmanaged stress—can negatively affect both physical and mental health.

The good news is: Practicing healthy lifestyle habits can help you manage stress in a healthy way. This can curtail stress before it builds up and becomes chronic, causing health issues.

How to Manage Stress

• Talk with your manager about work-related issues that need resolution.
• Create and maintain work/life boundaries.
• Exercise for at least 30 minutes most days.
• Take up relaxing routines such as meditation or yoga.
• Eat a balanced diet filled with fruits and veggies.

Not feeling your best? Schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment or stop by AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga to get the care you need!