The 12 Stages of Burnout
While different researchers may divide the process into different stages or terms, one widely accepted model of burnout was proposed by psychologists Herbert Freudenberger and Gail North.
They identified 12 stages that, together, create a picture of the pathway to burnout. Remember, these stages are not necessarily linear; they can overlap and one may skip stages.
The Compulsion to Prove Oneself: Often the initial stage, where the individual is demonstrating their worth and capability. They are committed and ready to prove themselves, sometimes leading to high levels of ambition.
Working Harder: Individuals may become obsessed with handling everything themselves, which can lead to taking on more work than they can handle. They might be neglecting their own needs to meet the workload.
Neglecting Needs: As work takes up more time, basic needs like sleeping, eating, and taking time off might be neglected. They may tell themselves these sacrifices are worth it to get the job done.
Displacement of Conflicts: People might become aware that something is wrong but cannot pinpoint the issue. Instead, they may dismiss their feelings and issues, leading to a crisis in their values and potentially an identity crisis.
Revision of Values: Work takes over all energy and focus, leading to a lack of energy for friends and hobbies. They may value their work more than their health and personal life.
Denial of Emerging Problems: Individuals may start becoming intolerant, seeing colleagues as stupid, lazy, demanding, or undisciplined. Social contacts diminish further, and cynicism and aggression may become more apparent.
Withdrawal: Social life smallens to a critical level, feeling of being without hope and direction. They may seek release in alcohol, drugs, or other risky behaviors.
Odd Behavioral Changes: Changes in behavior become obvious to friends and family. The person becomes more irritable, aggressive, and may look visibly different.
Depersonalization: They start losing contact with themselves. They may not see themselves or others as valuable, and no longer perceive their own needs.
Inner Emptiness: They may feel empty inside and may try to overcome this by overeating, sex, alcohol, or drugs. Activities are often exaggerated.
Depression: Feeling lost and unsure, exhausted, and the future feels bleak and dark. They may feel it's all too much and life loses its meaning.
Burnout Syndrome: They can become suicidal and require immediate medical attention. The burnout syndrome is often linked to severe physical symptoms such as collapse, stroke, or heart attack.
This list paints a grim picture, but it's important to note that intervention and help can occur at any stage. Understanding the stages can help in identifying the signs of burnout and thus help prevent its advance.
What stage are you at? If you’re unsure of how to recover, book a call with me to discuss options.
Also, check out the Needs Improvement Podcast where we dive into topics just like this
