Burnout is generally characterized by a certain lack of
energy and/or
emotional exhaustion. It also may include a degree of
job dissatisfaction, increased work absenteeism, and poor
job performance. Those who suffer from burnout may also be seen to have essentially
negative attitudes, a greater tendency to become ill (i.e. lowered
immune system function, which means they may have some degree of
depression), and a penchant for isolating themselves.
People who have any or all of these
symptoms sometimes have a hard time dealing with the demands of
daily life and often feel
overwhelmed. When they suffer from low
energy, they may be more unable to manage
stress, have a difficult time getting to
sleep, and have many
somatic complaints.
In addition, they are not always in control of their
emotions and/or related actions, and may have a hard time recognizing this or learning from
mistakes that they make. Often, they have a hard time feeling
compassion or
respect for others and can feel
alienated and alone.