Getting to know “Burnout Syndrome"

                       Even though we are entering a new year, COVID-19 is still with us, and it seems that there is no easy end to it after the discovery of the omicron variant. As a result, many organisations have once again returned to the Work From Home format to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the business community. This is another reason that many people may encounter “Burnout Syndrome”, which is psychological stress from feeling tired and worn out for no reason.

What is Burnout Syndrome?

                       A psychological condition that comes from accumulated stress or fatigue from work. When changing a home into a workplace, it can be hard to adjust one’s work schedule. Not finishing work as intended, together with work equipment that is not fit for purpose: these things can cause a build-up of stress to the point of Burnout Syndrome, and in the long run this can lead to depression. In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared “Burnout Syndrome” to be a medical condition and included it in its diagnostic handbook, The International Classification of Diseases.

Signs of Burnout Syndrome

     • Feeling a loss of energy or exhaustion
     • Feeling resistance or negative views towards your work, or a lack of motivation to work
     • Decreased work efficiency

How to recharge yourself

     • Try to adjust the balance of your work life and personal life (Work-Life Balance)
     • Get enough rest and take care of your body
     • Relieve stress by doing activities that you enjoy, such as watching movies, listening to music, exercising, and going on holiday
     • Reduce your use of electronic devices, communication equipment, and limit the time you spend using social media
     • Ask for help. Talk to someone who may be able to help you; just talking can help alleviate stress.

Mental health problems such as “Burnout Syndrome” are not something that we should ignore or have to endure. Regularly check your mental state to be aware and be able to manage stress properly, to build inspiration and rekindle your passion for your work once again. With concern, from the Alumni Community of the Faculty of Law, Thammasat University.