Mental Health Study | How To Help a Friend With Stress & Burnout
A new study by Asana looked at over 10,000 knowledge workers across seven countries and found approximately 70% had experienced burnout in the last year. Stress is normal and can be healthy, but an unreasonable amount of stress can be overwhelming and cause people to want to abandon something that was once important to them. Here are some signs someone you love is feeling over-stressed or burned out:
Feeling drained
Body aches
Not feeling able to cope
Being sad, angry, irritable, or not caring
Using more alcohol or other substances
Not being able to fight off illness
The tip into burnout usually begins to show when someone starts thinking, "I don't know if I can do this anymore." When someone you care about feels burned out, being their support can make all the difference. First and foremost, validate their feelings by acknowledging that burnout is natural and understandable. Encourage them to take a step back and prioritize self-care, whether through rest, relaxation, or engaging in activities they love. Offer practical help and share what has helped you find replenishment or simply be a listening ear. Encourage them to seek professional help, whether therapy or counseling, if necessary. Most importantly, let them know you're in their corner, cheering them on as they navigate this challenging time.
Helpful Questions To Ask
How are you really feeling right now? I'm here to listen.
What are some activities or hobbies that help you relax and unwind?
Is there anything specific that's been weighing heavily on your mind lately?
Have you been prioritizing self-care? What can I do to support you in that?
Do you feel comfortable discussing your workload and finding ways to lighten it?