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Do you have any of the 7 signs of burnout?

In Body + Soul, Features, Mind Health, Stories by Nicole Fuge

If you are regularly feeling overwhelmed, you might be at risk of burning out. Here are the signs of burnout and what to do.

By Mama Disrupt®

Let’s talk about the signs of burnout. Because we know that every mama has one of ‘those’ days every now and then – when you feel stressed out and utterly exhausted… #overwhelm.

You’ve been up half the night, the to-do list is out of control, a work deadline is looming, and the kids have just tipped glitter all over the dog.

Something that is longer exclusive to the corporate CEOs of the world, mama burnout is on the rise. But are you at risk, and what can you do to bring some calm back to your world?


“WITH SO MUCH ON OUR PLATES AND THE CONSTANT PRESSURE TO BE PERFECT, THOSE DAYS CAN OFTEN BECOME WEEKS, UNTIL BURNOUT IS ON THE HORIZON.”

Signs of Burnout gumtree mama disrupt

What is burnout?

Burnout is the result of being in a chronic state of stress for a prolonged time. It zaps your energy leaving you feeling overwhelmed, drained, and unable to meet your everyday responsibilities. Rather than happening suddenly it comes on over time, making it harder to identify. However, there are some signs to watch out for:

1. Chronic fatigue

Early on you might feel tired and lack energy, but as burnout sets in you feel emotionally and physically depleted, waking up as exhausted as you went to bed.

2. Forgetfulness

From lack of attention to often losing items and the complete the inability to get through a working day, this can lead to further stress and anxiety as things pile up.

3. Irritability

Feeling snappy, tense, and short-tempered? Maybe more arguments are occurring at home, or you are snapping at the kids for trivial things. Either way, this is a certain sign of burnout.

4. Reduced immunity

As your body is depleted, your immunity is reduced, leading to increased sickness, such as colds and flu.

5. Insomnia

Oh, what we would give for a full night’s sleep anyway. But if you can’t sleep when you DO get chance to hit the hay, it is a sure sign that burnout is occurring.

6. Withdrawal

Loss of enjoyment and feelings of detachment can lead to withdrawal from various activities – playing with kids, social events, work commitments, eventually leading to further feelings of isolation.

7. Lack of productivity

Though you are stressed and putting in long hours, your productivity is reduced, and you feel like you are drowning in your overflowing to-do list.

Signs of Burnout invisible mental load mama disrupt

What can you do?

If you are concerned you are suffering from burnout, there are many steps you can take to get some control back in your life.

Get help

If you are experiencing any signs of burnout, seek help straight away. Visit your GP, or speak to a counsellor to help you work through the challenges you have on your plate.

Step back

Try to take some time to honestly look at the stress that is happening in your life. With a little perspective, you can start to delegate some tasks.

Set some boundaries

As a mama, learning to say ‘no’ is a huge challenge. But that little word can make all the difference to your happiness.

Get creative

Nourishing your creative side is a wonderful antidote to burnout. Try a new hobby, start a project, or resume something you used to enjoy.

Try to get plenty of sleep

Though it’s hard with a tiny tribe to care for, rest is essential to recovery, so head to bed early, or take a nap during the day if you can.

Set aside time for relaxation

Yoga, meditation, reading a book, whatever helps you relax. Dedicate a little time to putting your body in a state opposite to the stress response it has become used to.

Go tech-free

Though 24/7 connectivity is handy, it is also a big culprit in lack of downtime. So, stop checking social media and turn off the phone, giving yourself space to wind down and chance for your brain to switch off.

Get support

If the majority of childcare and household responsibilities fall to you, have an honest conversation with your partner or immediate family for some help. You are no good to anyone if you are completely burnt out.

Lower your expectations

Take the pressure off yourself and drop the guilt. Decide what is important and let other things go.

Get social

Turn to your tribe, your partner, your friends, those who you enjoy spending time with to help you find some enjoyment in the little things again.

Get moving

Exercise is a fantastic antidote to stress, so get those endorphins firing with a walk in the sunshine.

Self-care

Most all, be kind to yourself.

For further information or support head to CopePANDA or beyond blue, or speak to your GP for help.

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