Pandemic job burnout

Have you become cynical or critical at work lately? Do you drag yourself to work and have trouble getting started? Do you find it hard to concentrate? Have your sleep habits changed?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might be experiencing job burnout. Job burnout is a special type of work-related stress —a state of physical or emotional exhaustion that involves a sense of reduced accomplishment and loss of personal identity according to the Mayo Clinic.

While many people think that the current work schedule is more at ease and relaxed because of work-from-home arrangements, there are certain jobs that can’t be performed at home. I am referring to essential workers such as medical professionals, health workers, emergency responders and law enforcers who provide 24-hour services in the hospitals, infirmary, and stations.

These frontline workers who are at daily risk of exposing themselves to danger are also very prone to work-related stress or job burnout. The scarcity of medical staff and police personnel requires them to extend their normal working days or hours. Hence, the lack of normal rest may cause excessive stress, fatigue, insomnia, sadness, anger, irritability, high blood pressure, heart disease, and vulnerability to illnesses.

Aside from frontline workers, teachers and school personnel have also been under so much stress lately. It is because they are performing multiple jobs and functions beyond the usual, like finding resources, monitoring and assessing home-based learners under limited conditions or restrictions.

Many professionals also suffer job burnout in spite of the alternative work arrangement due to so much pressure, extremes of activity, lack of resources, dysfunctional work dynamics, lack of administrative support and work-life imbalance.

So how can you get rid of job burnout under the new normal? First, take a vacation with a total cut-off from work. Second, find a release or diversion, join physical activities like sports or dance activities. Third, share your problems, thoughts and concerns with someone who cares about your well-being.

Another is to make work more fun and interesting by integrating motivational games at the workplace. You can also get plenty of sleep, exercise, and eat well to fully charge yourself so you can be ready to face the world again. Then lastly, if the stress is too much, you may have to quit your job. There is no point of staying on in an unhealthy job.

Never underestimate burnout. It has serious effect on your mental, emotional and physical welfare. Do whatever you can to relax and recharge, and find ways to maintain a good work-life balance. Your life is not totally dependent on your job.

Renester P. Suralta

Pardo

Cebu City