What are some early signs of burnout?

Great question! Understanding the difference between normal stress and burnout is important because while stress is often temporary and can sometimes be motivating, burnout is a more serious, chronic condition that requires attention. **Early signs of burnout often include:** 1. **Chronic fatigue:** Feeling physically and emotionally drained most of the time, even after rest. 2. **Cynicism or detachment:** Developing a negative or indifferent attitude toward your work or responsibilities, feeling disconnected from your usual interests. 3. **Decreased performance:** Finding it harder to concentrate, being less productive, or feeling like tasks take much more effort than before. 4. **Emotional exhaustion:** Feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or emotionally depleted. 5. **Sleep disturbances:** Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or not feeling rested after sleep. 6. **Increased irritability or frustration:** Becoming easily annoyed or impatient with colleagues, friends, or family. In contrast, normal stress tends to be situational and temporary—once the stressor is resolved, you usually feel better. Burnout develops over time due to prolonged stress without adequate rest or support, leading to a persistent state of exhaustion and detachment. If you find these signs are ongoing and affecting your wellbeing or daily functioning, it’s important to take action. Consider reaching out to a healthcare professional, counselor, or trusted support network. Prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and addressing workload or lifestyle factors can also help prevent burnout from worsening.