I Can’t Stop Crying – Recognizing the Signs of Burnout

I have a little secret to share. (Or perhaps it’s not really a secret at all; most of my friends could easily guess.) I thrive on being busy. I enjoy balancing on the fine line between being productively occupied and overwhelmed by too much to do.

However, this habit can become a significant issue. Although I often experience stress, I genuinely believe that personal growth comes from navigating challenges. Still, let’s not delve into our society’s fixation on relentless improvement when sometimes simply being content is perfectly adequate.

Yet, it has become a major concern. I constantly fear that if I stop writing, I’ll lose opportunities and interest from others. While there may be some truth to this, it’s not as dire as I make it out in my mind.

Saying “no” is a struggle for me.

Moreover, even prior to experiencing online harassment from a hate group last year or the surge in violence against marginalized communities, I noticed I was often on the verge of tears. Despite my life seeming to align with my desires, I felt an overwhelming sadness creeping in.

After scaling back my workload, I found relief, but then news of increased racism and violence — particularly the tragic events in Atlanta — hit hard, prompting a wave of tears that I couldn’t contain. I found myself clinging to my children, crying as they comforted me, leaving them bewildered and perhaps a bit traumatized.

What is Burnout?

Burnout is often viewed through the lens of creativity loss or inability to work, but it can also present physically, such as through constant tears. Officially, burnout is defined as extreme and chronic stress that leads to exhaustion. Whether stemming from work or personal life, its impact can drastically affect both professional and social dimensions, as well as overall health.

Typically, individuals feel perpetually overwhelmed and depleted, struggling to meet daily responsibilities. The more exhausted you become — mentally, emotionally, and physically — the more stressed you feel, leading to a disinterest in activities that once brought joy.

Negative Effects of Burnout

Burnout’s most troubling aspect is its inability to be contained indefinitely; its repercussions seep into all areas of life. This state can disrupt social connections, personal well-being, and professional performance, even leading to long-term health changes. You may find yourself more vulnerable to illnesses due to a weakened immune system.

Additionally, feelings of emptiness may arise, leading to decreased productivity and a sense of being drained — as if all energy has been sapped. This can foster feelings of resentment or cynicism. While some may generally have lower energy levels or a pessimistic outlook, if this starts to disrupt daily life, it may indicate burnout.

Signs of Burnout

If you’ve found yourself frequently searching for phrases like “Why do I cry so much?” or “Why am I feeling so drained?” consider the possibility that you may be experiencing burnout. Here are some common indicators:

Chronic Exhaustion: What starts as simple fatigue can escalate to complete depletion.
Feelings of Dread: Each morning feels daunting, and you struggle to face the day.
Insomnia: Initially having occasional sleep troubles may progress to persistent insomnia, despite exhaustion.
Inability to Focus: You may struggle to retain information or concentrate on tasks.
Irritability: If you find minor annoyances triggering anger or tears, burnout might be the cause.
Physical Symptoms: You could experience pain, palpitations, headaches, or breathing difficulties. Consult a medical professional if these issues arise.
Apathy and Hopelessness: A pervasive sense of meaninglessness can take hold, leaving you trapped in negativity.
Decreased Productivity: Work pressures can become overwhelming, leading to missed deadlines and poor performance.

If You’re Feeling Burned Out

Seek Help: Reach out to friends, family, or professionals to share your feelings. Just talking about your struggles can lighten the load.
Reassess Priorities: Set clear boundaries regarding work and relationships. Consider taking a break or even changing jobs to create space for self-reflection.
Focus on Self-Care: Engage in physical activity, prioritize sleep, and maintain a healthy diet to boost your well-being. For more advice on fertility supplements, check out Make A Mom.

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In summary, recognizing the signs of burnout is crucial to reclaiming your well-being. By seeking help, setting boundaries, and focusing on self-care, you can begin to heal and restore balance in your life.