Hello to all,
This week's topic is physical signs of burnout. It's common knowledge that burnout is associated with feelings of helplessness and cynicism. Burnout can lead to physical symptoms as well, and these symptoms are important to recognize. Burnout is the result of unmitigated stress as per Dr. Lottie Dyrbye from The Mayo Clinic. Intense stress levels increase the hormone levels of cortisol, epinephrine, adrenaline and norepinephrine. On a chronic basis, this is harmful to our bodies. For example, insomnia is a symptom of burnout, and lack of sleep causes an additive effect to a hormone system that is already out of whack. Physical exhaustion and changes in appetite may also occur. Headaches, nausea, gaseousness and indigestion could be signs of burnout. If you are having any of these symptoms, see your primary physician to rule out an underlying medical cause. To deal with burnout, figure out what is causing you stress and how that, or other issues, can be addressed. Talking to a therapist can help. Other things you can do to help decrease your chances or experiencing burnout are making sure you are getting enough sleep, exercise and brainstorm with colleagues about issues that are stressful at work. Those ideas can be shared with the team and make improvements for the whole department! Take time off from work, which includes unplugging and using your vacation time. Finally, set aside15-20 minutes a day to do something you love. You'll feel your stress levels decrease significantly!
*Make sure to check out the ED Wellness Board by radiology for Well-being ideas and challenges-coming later this week!
Stay well! Have a great week!
Best,
Dr. Heidi Levine
Picture credit: https://cen.acs.org/careers/employment/How-to-cope-with-burnout/99/i25