The definition of burnout is "a state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated stress." (PsychologyToday) Many people experience this because of their work or professions, while others experience it due to parenting, caregiving, or other high stress responsibilities. If you are in a helping profession or in a job with lots of never-ending demands, you are at risk for burnout. 

The cost of burnout is a big one. Studies have shown that high levels of burnout are linked to depression, anxiety, inflammation, high blood pressure, insomnia, headaches/migraines, physical exhaustion, and can impact our immune system greatly (Mathieu 2012). This means that you are at risk of getting sick more often. 

Other behavioral signs of burnout can include (but are not limited to), increased use of substances, addictions (shopping, eating, substances, working), calling out of work frequently, anger/irritability, feeling largely responsible or need to control, avoidance of work obligations, unable to make decisions, memory issues, impacted social relationships, etc. 

Burnout affects our mental health and this can seen in the following psychological signs: negative self image, pessimism and negativity around the work, unable to feel empathy or compassion, depression, avoiding peers, resentment, dreading the work, negative world view, hopelessness, unable to separate work from home life, and all the things that contribute to burnout and chronic stress.

This course will focus on how to create an inner compass that guides you to living a life that is aligned to your values, joy and wellness. We will incorporate how to complete your stress cycle so you are managing the stress buildup in your body. We will also take a look at negative thoughts and invite a more self-compassionate and tender way to relate to yourself. Additionally, leaning into change in the direction of wellness will mean that you need to set appropriate limits and boundaries on the things that create barriers to your wellbeing. We will work toward self-preserving you and your energy so that you can continue to do this meaningful work, in the capacity you choose. 

My hope for you is that you find what works for your body and your soul.