The COVID-19 pandemic has forced a lot of workers to go back home and do their work in the comforts of their own living room. While states have started lifting restrictions and a few businesses have resumed operations on-site, many Americans still find themselves stuck at home.
Burnout Problem in the U.S.
There are numerous benefits to remote work. Studies found that working from home may increase employees’ productivity and overall happiness. However, it is not for everybody.
Some prefer working in an office where they interact with their colleagues face to face and there are not a lot of distractions around them. Others are forced to juggle their professional responsibilities and childcare.
In addition, the stress brought about by the pandemic is taking a toll on the entire population’s mental health. It is no wonder that workers are experiencing burnout.
Earlier this year, Monster, an online employment platform, conducted a survey and found that over two-thirds of employees is experiencing symptoms of burnout from working at home.
There are many ways one can deal with and manage burnout while working from home. Take care of yourself; schedule a consultation with a professional with health coach training or someone who specializes in mental health issues if needed. You should also try to connect with your social networks, albeit remotely. Call your parents, have a video chat with your friends. These will give you comfort and recharge your mind.
How do you know if you are experiencing burnout in the first place? Here are the symptoms you should look out for.
Chronic Fatigue
Do you experience tiredness that does not go away no matter how much time you spend resting or sleeping? Do you feel physically and emotionally depleted? Do you dread when you wake up in the morning as you think about what lies ahead of you?
If the answer is yes to all three questions, then you may be experiencing chronic fatigue.
Chronic fatigue is a disorder characterized by extreme exhaustion. The causes of chronic fatigue are still unknown, but several factors, including stress, can increase your risk of developing the condition.
Insomnia
Those who have transitioned from working at the office to remote work may experience an erratic sleep pattern caused by the disruption of their daily routine. As a result, sleeping at night and waking up in the morning may become a little more challenging than usual. Once you get used to a new routine, things may go back to normal.
However, those who are burned out may complain of persistent sleeplessness. Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling and staying asleep. Those who have it may feel sleepy during the day, may have trouble concentrating, and may experience mood swings. In short, it may affect their performance at work.
Illness
Burnout may also manifest through physical symptoms. The condition causes an increased risk of infection. When your body is drained, your immune system is weakened and unable to fight off harmful pathogens. You end up vulnerable to colds, flu, and other illnesses.
Employees who are experiencing burnout may also feel heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, headaches, and gastrointestinal discomfort. If you have any of these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
Burnout is a serious problem. To employers, it means a decrease in productivity. To employees, it negatively impacts their mental and physical health. During the COVID-19 pandemic, employers and employees should develop strategies that will prevent burnout.