Beating Burnout: Protect Your Mind and Find Balance

Life can be challenging, especially with work. Sometimes, we push so hard that we hit a wall when work stress gets so big that it starts to wear us down emotionally and mentally. This is called work burnout.

 

What is work burnout?
Imagine running a race that never ends. That's what burnout feels like. It’s when work stress makes you feel wiped out, like you don't care about your job anymore, and as if you're not doing well at work no matter how hard you try.

 

What are the signs of burnout?
Signs include feeling tired all the time or not feeling connected to your job. It’s important to know when to take a break, enjoy some downtime and ask for help when you need it. This could mean talking to people you work with or getting help from a professional.

Think you might need help? If any of these symptoms last longer than two weeks, you should consider reaching out for help:

• Feeling excessively sad, withdrawn or anxious
• Severe mood swings
• Intense worries or fears
• Sudden overwhelming fear
• Significant weight loss or weight gain
• Out-of-control risk-taking behavior
• Repeated use of drugs or alcohol
• Sudden changes in behavior, personality or sleeping habits
• Difficulty concentrating or staying still
• Abrupt changes in sex drive

 

Virtual support from the comfort of home
With telehealth services provided by Teladoc® Health, you can connect with a licensed mental health specialist online, by phone or mobile app. All members get their first two Teladoc visits covered in full. It's a stress-free and cost-effective way to get support from anywhere seven days a week.

Many providers are also accepting new patients. Teladoc mental health services are available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., ensuring help is always within reach.

 

Talk to a professional
Use our National Doctor and Hospital Finder tool to see if your doctor is in our network or to find a doctor, specialist or urgent care center near you. Our network includes over 1.7 million doctors and hospitals, plus over 55,000 retail pharmacies in the U.S. You also never need a referral to see a specialist.

If you’re a member and logged in to MyBlue^®, you can access additional provider information (such as procedure cost estimates) by searching here.

It can be helpful to talk about how you’re feeling with a mental health professional. 

There are several types of mental health professionals, including:

• Psychologists
• Psychiatrists
• Psychiatric nurse practitioners
• Counselors, clinicians & therapists
• Clinical social workers
• Certified alcohol & drug abuse counselors

 

These professionals provide care in different settings like:

• Teletherapy & telepsychiatry
• Private practices
• Community or county mental health centers
• Substance abuse treatment centers

 

Self-help and professional guidance

While searching for the right professional, there are steps you can take:

• Build a support network.
• Join peer groups.
• Be active in your treatment decisions.
• Develop a recovery plan.
• Practice relaxation techniques, like meditation or yoga.
• Regular exercise can improve mental and physical health.

 

Acknowledging the need for help is a strength. With resources, like Teladoc and our wide array of support options, you're equipped to navigate the path to a healthier, more balanced life.

 

• www.healthline.com/health/work-stress
• www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/burnout/art-20046642