Is Believing You're Burned Out Burning You Out?

"Burnout has become a self-diagnosed condition that gets used often. We talk about the 'burnout epidemic' as if it's a virus spreading through the workforce. And that framing may be part of the problem."

"The World Health Organization defines burnout as an occupational condition characterized by feelings of energy depletion and exhaustion, increased mental distance or cynicism toward one's job, and reduced professional efficacy."

"While labeling your emotions is helpful, labeling an identity has drawbacks. Neuroscience backs this up. A UCLA neuroimaging study found that labeling an emotion reduces activity in the amygdala—the brain's alarm center."

"Adopting an identity like, 'I'm burned out' does the opposite. It amplifies and reinforces your position. If you believe you're burned out, you might feel a bit hopeless."

Burnout is frequently self-diagnosed and referred to as an epidemic, which may contribute to the problem. The World Health Organization defines burnout specifically as an occupational condition, distinct from other life stressors. Labeling emotions can be beneficial, but adopting an identity like 'I'm burned out' can reinforce negative feelings. Research indicates that recognizing emotions can reduce their intensity, while labeling oneself as burned out may exacerbate the situation, suggesting that burnout could be more manageable than commonly believed.

Read at Psychology Today