What is burnout?
Burnout is a syndrome characterized by emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It occurs when a person feels overworked over a long period of time and is unable to cope with the ongoing demands. Burnout reduces productivity and saps a person's energy, often leading to feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, cynicism and resignation. One positive aspect for those affected is that, although burnout has not been recognized as an independent disease according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) since 2022, it is still recognized as a syndrome with clearly defined dimensions, which makes it easier for professionals to make a clear diagnosis. However, it is critical that the ICD-11 limits burnout exclusively to the work context and therefore does not take into account other stresses such as social challenges or care work.
Those affected by burnout are not alone
In contrast to other mental illnesses, burnout is less stigmatized because it is seen as a problem with work-related origins. This often makes it easier for people to accept it and talk about it with others. The numbers of people at risk or affected by burnout in Switzerland also clearly show that it is not a problem of a few.
According to the "Job Stress Index" published by Health Promotion Switzerland, around 30% of 16- to 65-year-olds in employment suffer from emotional exhaustion, a figure that is on the rise. According to the SRG survey, around 17% of all adults in Switzerland have already experienced burnout.
How can I tell if I am suffering from burnout?
Burnout syndromes often develop gradually and manifest themselves in various symptoms that can be divided into three main categories: Exhaustion, disengagement from work and reduced performance.
To recognize whether you may be suffering from burnout, you can look out for various warning signs and symptoms that are typical of this syndrome. These questions can help you recognize whether you are suffering from or at risk of burnout:
8 questions to recognize burnout:
1. do I feel permanently tired?
You feel chronically exhausted, burnt out and lacking in energy - not only physically, but also emotionally and mentally. Even after a break or a weekend, you don't feel refreshed.
2. do I distance myself from my work, do I express myself sarcastically or negatively more often?
You are developing an increasingly negative, cynical attitude towards your work and perhaps also towards colleagues and customers. You now find the work you once enjoyed frustrating, unsatisfying or pointless.
3. do I feel ineffective and unhappy with my performance?
Despite your efforts, you feel that you are not achieving the desired results. You may develop self-doubt and feel that your professional performance is declining.
4. has my sleeping or eating behavior changed?
You experience sleep disturbances such as insomnia or excessive sleeping. Your appetite may also change, which can lead to weight loss or weight gain.
5. do I feel listless and find it difficult to get up early?
You find it difficult to motivate yourself to do tasks that used to be easy and getting up every day becomes a challenge.
6. am I sick more often or have headaches?
You may experience frequent physical complaints such as headaches, gastrointestinal problems and a weakened immune system that makes you more susceptible to infections.
7. do I feel easily attacked or irritated?
You may be overly sensitive to criticism, or everyday problems may seem overwhelming. An increased level of irritability or frequent mood swings can also be signs.
8. do I feel less like meeting up with friends or family?
You withdraw from friends and family and lose interest in social activities that you used to enjoy.
What should you do if you think you are suffering from burnout?
If you experience several of these symptoms and they persist over a longer period of time, it may be helpful to seek professional support. A therapist or doctor can help you to assess your situation more accurately. This is particularly important to make sure that it is actually burnout and not depression, as the type of treatment differs depending on the diagnosis. Options following a burnout diagnosis:
Therapy:
Psychotherapy, especially stress management therapy programs, can be very effective in treating the causes of burnout and developing coping strategies.
Psychiatric Spitex:
This provides care and help at home and in everyday life from qualified professionals, which can be particularly helpful if going to a doctor's office or clinic is an additional burden. Psychiatric Spitex can also help you with household chores, shopping or commuting to and from work, helping you to continuously improve your well-being.
In Switzerland, waiting times for psychotherapeutic help vary considerably depending on the region and type of therapy. In general, waiting times for an outpatient therapy place can range from a few weeks to several months. Psychosocial Spitex can fill this gap and help those affected more quickly.
We will be happy to provide you with information on private Spitex care for burnout:
