Avoiding Job Burnout

1. Avoiding Job Burnout Presented by: Maribeth Bohley M.A.

2. This is the story of Don… When Don first started with his organization (the county), he loved his job! He went into work every day filled with purpose and passion, and he was excited about the difference he could make in his new role.

3. This is the story of Don… Three years later, however, it's hard to recognize him. Now, Don dreads going to work. He feels as if his work is meaningless, he's always detached and aloof, and he calls in sick frequently. Stress+ Exhaustion + long term disillusionment =

5. Video Introduction

6. Is it “stress” or “burnout?” Vocabulary…

7. What’s the difference? Stress Burnout • Characterized by over-engagement • Emotions are over-reactive • Produces urgency and hyperactivity • Characterized by disengagement • Emotions are blunted • Produces helplessness and hopelessness • Loss of motivation, ideals, and hope

8. The Results Stress Burnout • Leads to anxiety disorders • Primary damage is physical • May kill you prematurely • Leads to detachment and depression • Primary damage is emotional • May make life seem not worth living – may lead to suicide

9. Video Physiology of Stress & Burnout

10. What causes job Burnout?

11. What causes job burnout? • Lack of control • Unclear job expectations • Dysfunctional workplace dynamics • Mismatch in values • Poor job fit • Extremes of activity • Lack of social support • Work-life imbalance • Depersonalization • Reduced personal accomplishment • Emotional exhaustion

12. Burnout - PhysicalWarning Signs and Symptoms • Feeling tired and drained • Lowered immunity; feeling sick • Frequent headaches, back pain, muscle aches • Change in appetite or sleep habits • Chest pain, shortness of breath, sleeplessness, or heart palpitations. (Make sure that you see a physician about these!)

13. Burnout – EmotionalWarning Signs and Symptoms • Sense of failure & self doubt • Feeling helpless, trapped, and defeated • Detachment; feeling alone • Loss of motivation • Cynical & negative outlook • Decreased satisfaction & sense of accomplishment

14. Burnout - BehavioralWarning Signs & Symptoms • Withdrawing from responsibilities • Isolating yourself • Procrastinating • Using food, drugs, or alcohol to cope • Taking out frustrations on others • Skipping work, being late, leaving early

15. You may be on the road to burnout if: • Every day is a bad day. • Caring about your work or home life seems like a total waste of energy. • You’re exhausted all the time. • The majority of your day is spent on tasks you find either mind-numbingly dull or overwhelming. • You feel like nothing you do makes a difference or is appreciated.

16. Strategies for Combating Job Burnout • Identify the cause • Create balance • Your physical health • Time OUT • Address it • Talk it out • Breathe

17. GROUP ACTIVITY

18. What do you do to recover from Burnout? Small Groups (3-4) • Select spokesperson • Make a list of things that work for you? What are you doing right now that help you avoid job burnout? • 3. Share with class

19. Video Clip

20. Your Proactive Action Plan to Prevent Burnout • Take active responsibility for your career & life. • Take care of your body’s basic needs. • Create balance in your life. Develop interests outside of work. Take a vacation! • Strengthen your body, mind, spirit and personal relationships. • Focus on the positive. • Recognize when you need help and ASK!

21. Thank you Remember your EAP We are here to help you!

22. The Solutions Group • Employee Assistance Program • Life Challenges • Formal/Informal referrals • Confidential • “Free” • You and Family members living with you • Up to three sessions, per topic, per person, per year • Training • Coaching