Burn-out syndrome, also known as fatigue syndrome, is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and untreated stress. It can occur in both professional and private areas.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of burnout can vary from person to person, but often include feelings of emotional exhaustion, loss of interest or motivation, mental detachment from work or other activities, and a decrease in efficiency and concentration. Physical symptoms such as trouble sleeping, headaches and physical exhaustion can also occur.
Medication:
Drug treatments for burn out syndrome are usually geared towards treating symptoms such as trouble sleeping and anxiety. Antidepressants and antipsychotics can help relieve symptoms, but they are not the primary treatment for burn out. There are also medications such as benzodiazepines that should no longer be prescribed, as they have a high risk of dependency and increase the risk of side effects in the long term.
Psychotherapeutic treatment:
Psychotherapeutic treatments can be very effective in treating burnout syndrome. These include cognitive behavioral therapy, systemic therapy and psychoanalytic therapy. They can help process the emotional impact of burnout, identify and manage the stressors, and improve stress management skills.
mindfulness:
Mindfulness-based techniques, such as yoga and meditation, can also be helpful in reducing burnout symptoms by helping to divert attention from negative thoughts and feelings and promoting feelings of calm and relaxation.
Forecast:
The prognosis for patients with burn-out syndrome is usually good, especially if treatment is started early. With a combination of psychotherapeutic treatments, medication, and mindfulness-based techniques, symptoms can be significantly reduced. However, it is important to note that long-term treatment may be needed to improve symptoms. It is also important that patients and their loved ones are educated about the condition to allow for better understanding and support.
Additional Information:
Read more about the causes, course and treatment here.