Burnout Syndrome: what is it and why is everyone tired?

Burnout Syndrome was first mentioned in 1974 by the American psychologist Freudenberger. Since then, many studies have been carried out with the aim of better understanding the causes of this syndrome.

As the years go by and technology advances, we have become accustomed to wanting everything “yesterday”, as well as demanding perfection from ourselves in all the tasks we do. All these demands can trigger a series of disorders.

Among the most common is burnout syndrome, which we will discuss in this article. So, to learn more about the symptoms, causes, and cure, continue reading until the end! 

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Burnout Syndrome, what is it?

Burnout is a syndrome that can be considered a depressive mental disorder, with symptoms similar to those of stress, anxiety and panic syndrome. However, the main cause of this syndrome is work. 

In 2019, burnout was added to the World Health Organization's (WHO) International Classification of Diseases list and, if not treated correctly, can develop into other diseases, such as hypertension, gastrointestinal problems, severe depression, among others.

It's as if the mind forgets to "switch off" and enjoy a moment of relaxation. Excessive demands on oneself, and on one's superiors, ends up having a negative impact on one's personal and professional life.

Women who work a double shift, such as working all day and still taking care of the house and children, are at risk of being affected. 

Symptoms

When work turns into intense stress and nervousness, leaving a person extremely tired and exhausted, they are suffering from burnout syndrome. Many people affected by this syndrome end up misusing insomnia medication, for example.

The main symptoms of the syndrome are: sleep disorders, muscle and headaches, irritability, mood swings, memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, lack of appetite, aggressiveness, isolation, depression, pessimism and low self-esteem, feelings of apathy and hopelessness and greater susceptibility to diseases.

Treatment

The first step is to seek professional help from a psychologist to find out the level of the syndrome and then identify the best means of treatment. 

Depending on the level, treatment can be done with activities that distract the person suffering from this. Setting aside time for yourself, whether it be through physical activities, reading a book, watching a movie or television program, is essential to avoid this exhaustion. 

In addition to these activities, psychological support should be provided at least once a week. In more severe cases, medication may be necessary. However, these medications must be prescribed by responsible professionals. 

The effects and duration of treatment vary depending on the patient and the severity of the case. However, regardless of the severity, treatment with a psychologist is essential.

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Indemnity

According to a survey conducted by the Special Secretariat for Social Security and Labor, in 2018 there was an increase of 1,14% in the number of sickness benefits granted to people diagnosed with burnout syndrome. The number of cases of affected workers who appealed to the INSS jumped from 196 in 2017 to 421 in 2018.

Because it is linked to work, the syndrome is considered an occupational disease that is directly linked to the stresses of the corporate world and is therefore eligible for a worker to be removed from their duties by the National Institute of Social Security (INSS).

After undergoing a medical examination and being diagnosed with burnout, the patient is entitled to job security for at least 12 months. During the period of absence, the worker will continue to receive payment, so don't stop taking care of yourself for fear of becoming unemployed or without money!

Burnout Syndrome in the Pandemic

According to a study carried out in November 2020 by PEBMED, 78% of health professionals had signs of Burnout Syndrome during the pandemic. The prevalence was 79% among doctors, 74% among nurses and 64% among nursing technicians.

Even before the pandemic, healthcare professionals were already more likely to have mental health problems, as the profession demands a lot from professionals, with long working days and facing a wide range of stresses on a daily basis.

Many people had to go months without seeing friends and family to avoid contagion. On top of all this, they witnessed the deaths of thousands of people due to the virus. 

Therefore, it is essential that health professionals receive psychological support. This is the only way they can maintain their well-being and be able to care for others. 

Burnout Syndrome in Brazil

According to a survey carried out by the International Stress Management Association (ISMA-BR) Brazil ranks second in the ranking of countries with people most affected by Burnout Syndrome, second only to Japan. 

As previously mentioned, if left untreated, Burnout Syndrome can trigger severe depression. A study conducted by the WHO (World Health Organization) shows that 11.5 million people in Brazil suffer from depression.

Emotional exhaustion caused by burnout has also been increasing and, according to a study carried out in 2019, around 20 thousand Brazilians requested medical leave during the year due to work-related mental illnesses. 

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Nathalia Silva November 1, 2021