Productivism and burnout go hand in hand

Our society is focused on giving our best at work, but it is our health that loses out. The overtime, the objectives to be achieved, the new projects, a thousand requests that have a certain “urgency”, among other points that show us that we live. in a company that needs to give 200% to its work and […]

Our society is focused on giving our best at work, but it is our health that loses out

Extraordinary, objectives to be achieved, new projects, a thousand requests that have a certain “urgency”, among other points that show us that we live in a society that needs to give 200% to its work and its productivism. The famous phrase on social media said: “They work while they sleep”. But then shouldn’t you rest too?

In the book Psychodynamics of work: contributions of the Dejourian school to the analysis of the relationship between pleasure, suffering and work (Editora Atlas), Christophe Dejours, a Frenchman considered the father of the psychodynamics of work, underlines that we, human beings, have objectives, perceptions, individual thoughts, emotions and actions, but when work becomes a source of tension and dissatisfaction, it gives rise to suffering and pathology.

Produce, produce, produce, produce…

For Dr. Denise Pará Diniz, specialist in stress management focused on health and work and Omint accredited psychologist, our society has become this way after several messages of productive action and the idea that all goals are achievable. “If we were forbidden to do something, today we are encouraged, that is, the idea appears that we can always obtain a better version of ourselves. Which implies always trying to achieve a greater goal, based on self-demands and/or, often , environmental needs”, he underlines.

The effects of overload

Our bodies and minds feel when we neglect rest and focus on productivity. Burnout, according to Denise, is common in professionals who work under pressure and with constant responsibilities on a daily basis. “Overwork with exhausting working hours; a highly competitive context; who may suffer psychological pressure; or who may also impose themselves or be under pressure to achieve abusive objectives. Finally, living in situations of high levels of stress can trigger the onset of illness.”

Symptoms

The main physical and psychological signs and symptoms that may indicate burnout syndrome are:

• Changes in appetite and mood swings;
• Excessive physical and mental fatigue;
• Difficulty concentrating;
• Widespread pain, such as headache;
• Insomnia and isolation;
• Constant negativity;
• Feelings of defeat, hopelessness, failure, insecurity and incompetence.

Break the cycle!

The expert offers advice to companies and professionals to break the cycle of productivism and enhance well-being.

Advice for workers

• “Important: It is essential to maintain a balance between work, free time, family, social life and physical activities.”
• Try setting small goals in your professional and personal life;
• Participate in recreational activities with friends and family;
• Give yourself a moment of rest, get out of your routine, take a walk, eat at a restaurant or go to the cinema;
• Talk to someone you trust about what you feel;
• Do regular physical activity. It can be the activity you like most: gym, walking, running, cycling, tennis, swimming, etc.;
• Maintain a healthy diet;
• Be careful about excessive alcohol use;
• Do not self-medicate and do not take medicines without a prescription.

Advice for companies

• Preventive and proactive actions to avoid health problems, including promoting well-being in the workplace. This can significantly contribute to reducing occupational diseases;
• Empathetic and employee-focused leadership.

There is a treatment!

Dr. Denise explains that a mental health professional (psychologist, psychiatrist, neurologist) can identify burnout syndrome and establish treatment, but the person suffering must recognize that they must seek help. “It is very important that there is observation and participation of managers in the work environment and/or even friends and family. This is because, often, the person himself does not recognize that he needs treatment. Depending on the diagnosis , the treatment is usually medical and behavioral (psychotherapy), and must be carried out by a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary team”, concludes the psychologist

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.