Page 17 - IFV Issue 12 December 2023

Lifestyle

YEAR-END BURNOUT: HOW TO COPE

Steer clear of burnout by practising self-care as the year winds down

Photo by Konrad Koller Photo by Joseph Gonzalez Photo by Toa Heftiba

s this hectic year draws to CEOs and frontline workers. The tricky can boost your mental and physical
a close, it is not unusual for thing about burnout is its insidious wellbeing significantly, providing a
Amany of us to feel the creeping nature: it often creeps up on you surprising energy uptick.
dread of burnout. More than mere unnoticed. • Diet: Nourish your stressed body
tiredness, burnout is a profound state with essentials. A balanced diet, rich
of mental, physical and emotional Warning signs in healthy fats, vegetables and fruits,
exhaustion that can take the joy out Feeling utterly drained, irrespective of is crucial.
of life. It’s a serious and potentially sleep, is a major red flag. Other signs • Sleep: Getting quality sleep is
harmful condition, so please read on include persistent headaches, stomach non-negotiable. Foster good sleep
for key insights into what to watch out issues, reduced appetite and general hygiene by maintaining consistent
for and how to steer clear of end-of- malaise. If you find yourself dodging bedtimes, limiting afternoon and
year burnout. social interactions for solitude, be evening caffeine, engaging in
cautious – while alone time is vital, total calming pre-sleep routines, and
Who is at risk? isolation is a concern. reducing screen time before bed.
Burnout isn’t exclusive to high-flyers Quick temper flare-ups are
climbing the corporate ladder. It can also indicative of overwhelming Remember, it is okay to seek help.
affect anyone, especially during the stress. Moreover, chronic stress can Admitting you are under pressure is not
year-end frenzy. Prolonged exposure to compromise your immune system, a failure; it allows those around you to
high-stress environments or situations is leading to frequent illnesses and offer needed support. Do not hesitate to
a common trigger. heightening the risk of depression and reach out to friends, family or colleagues.
With the pandemic entering its third anxiety.
year – albeit on a smaller scale – our Need additional resources? Meditation
thoughts go out to the healthcare Warding off burnout apps like Headspace or online yoga
workers who have been our lifeline. Lifestyle enhancements are your first classes can offer invaluable tools to
However, it is not just them; recent line of defence against burnout. Here are navigate through the burnout season.
studies show parents are just as three immediate changes to consider: Let us take care of ourselves and each
susceptible to end-of-year burnout as • Exercise: A brief, enjoyable workout other as the year wraps up.

The Villager • Issue 12 2023 • 15