Last month we posted on how to recognize burnout and some tips and tricks to reduce or avoid it. If you missed it, catch up here.
Now that we've outlined what burnout is and how to spot it, let's talk about how to help someone who is burnt out.
Some of the most commonly experienced emotions/ sensations among adults in North America are stress, overwhelm, hopelessness, fatigue and overload. In recent years the reports of burnout have skyrocketed. We are burnt out at work, at home, parenting, with friends, with social commitments, and so much more.
Many of you might know someone who is experiencing burnout or you may be experiencing it yourself. Cue Taylor Swift, "It's Me... Hi... I'm the Problem... It's Me!"
Here are 5 ways you can support someone who is struggling with burnout. Maybe it will even be helpful for you!
1. Listen Without Giving Feedback
Oftentimes, a lot of individuals just want to be heard and feel validated in their experiences. Lending a listening ear can do wonders. Try asking if they would like you to just listen or listen and provide feedback. Receiving unwanted feedback when you're already feeling overwhelmed can add unnecessary stress, even with the best intentions.
2. Take On Tasks To Assist The Person Who Is Burnt Out
Asking someone "how can I help you" adds another task for them to stress about. Instead of asking them how they need assistance try saying "I see you're struggling, I am going to make dinner tonight" (or insert whatever task you are willing to take off their plate). A
When an individual is experiencing burnout, even daily tasks can seem daunting and overwhelming. Offering a helping hand can make it easier for your loved one to ask for help.
3. Frequently Check In With Them
Burnout can be an exhausting, emotionally difficult and isolating.
Letting someone know that you see them and you are here for them can be so important.
4. Encourage Rest
Most people who are experiencing burnout, are overworked, overwhelmed and have neglected self-care for a long period of time. In some cases, rest can feel foreign to them, or even like another task to add to their never ending list.
Soft and gentle encouragement to remind them to rest during the recovery can be what they may need.
5. Have Patience And Be Understanding
The onset of burnout was probably not instant, but rather a slow simmer over a long period of time. Healing from burnout will likely be the same (in reverse).
Try to be patient with the process, keeping your own expectations to a minimum.
If you are struggling to support someone with burnout, remember that taking care of yourself is important too! Our team of therapists are experts at lending a listening ear and holding space for you to decompress while you support someone you care about.
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