Burnout is a gradual process that occurs over an extended period of time. It doesn’t happen overnight, but it can creep up on you if you’re not paying attention to the warning signals. The signs and symptoms of burnout are subtle at first, but they get worse as time goes on.

Physical signs and symptoms of burnout

• Feeling tired and drained most of the time
• Lowered immunity, feeling ill
• Frequent headaches, back pain, muscle aches
• Change in appetite or sleep habits

Behavioural signs and symptoms of burnout

• Withdrawing from responsibilities
• Isolating yourself from others
• Procrastinating, taking longer to get things done
• Using food, drugs, or alcohol to cope
• Taking out your frustrations on others
• Skipping work or coming in late and leaving early

Emotional signs and symptoms of burnout

• Sense of failure and self-doubt
• Feeling helpless, trapped, and defeated
• Detachment, feeling alone in the world
• Loss of motivation
• Increasingly cynical and negative outlook
• Decreased satisfaction and sense of accomplishment