Burnout is not a one size fits all syndrome. Burnout comes in various forms and is caused by many different factors. Three of the most common types of burnout are overload burnout, under-challenged burnout, and neglect.
[Read: What is burnout?]
What is overload type of burnout?
Overload burnout is one of the most common types of burnout. It occurs when faced with an increased workload that becomes unsustainable. Continuing to work at an unsustainable rate and above your limits, means that something must give. This is often in the form of mental and physical health. Our bodies only have so much capacity to manage prolonged stress and increased pressures. Overload burnout is common in high-pressure and/or caregiving jobs where the physical or emotional demands of the job often exceed your limits.
What is under-challenged type of burnout?
Under-challenged burnout is the flip side to overload burnout. The hallmark of under-challenged burnout is a lack of engagement and challenge in work. Often individuals with under-challenge burnout feel bored or lack connection to the work which leads to feeling unmotivated and demoralized. In a state of under-challenged burnout, individuals may distract themselves from work in various ways.
What is neglect type of burnout?
Neglect burnout is feeling helpless at work or when doing work. A lack of support and direction within the working environment are vital contributors to neglect burnout. Neglect burnout is recognizable by a mixture of feelings such as frustration, uncertainty, and being stuck in a rut. Neglect burnout can result in a negative mindset and helplessness. When neglect burnout is experienced in an environment along with overload or under-challenge burnout, it can be exponentially devastating.
Recovery from burnout is possible
Burnout may seem scary and very complex but recovery is possible. If you are struggling with burnout, remember you are not alone! Ignoring the impacts of burnout will negatively influence your well-being and relationships. Living in a state of chronically over and/or underwhelmed with a lack of support is unsustainable.
[Read: Self-care: The radical roots of a mental health cornerstone]
Ready to get help with burnout?
At Emovere, we specialize in embodied and creative arts therapies to support you in recovering from burnout. Contact us to set up a free consultation with one of our burnout experts.
About the Author
Katie Bohn, LPC, BC-DMT, SEP is the owner and clinical director of Emovere. She provides clinical supervision and consultation to a team of amazing therapists and burnout experts at Emovere. She loves helping people reconnect to their vitality and spark after experiencing painful moments in life.
