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Motherhood Burnout Symptoms

HelpGuide.org defines burnout as "a state of emotional, mental and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress." The website emphasizes the importance of recognizing when stress has evolved into burnout because there are different strategies for dealing with the two ailments. All symptoms of motherhood burnout should be considered serious, as untreated burnout can lead to depression. Writing for BetweenMoms.com, Nicole Bandes reports that changing dietary, health and lifestyle habits can be successful treatments for motherhood burnout.

  1. Stress Symptoms vs Burnout Symptoms

    • Because the symptoms of burnout are often mistaken for stress, it is important to understand how the symptoms of the two disorders differ. Generally speaking, stress produces a feeling of urgency, hyperactivity and overengagement, while burnout may be experienced as a feeling of emptiness, hopelessness, blunted emotions and disengagement. Stress symptoms are usually physical, and the effects of stress can be physically damaging. Burnout may also be experienced physically, but most symptoms of motherhood burnout are emotional and lead to psychological effects, such as depression.

    Physical Symptoms of Motherhood Burnout

    • According to HelpGuide.org, frequent colds or illnesses related to a weakened immune system or experiencing headaches and other body aches that have no known source may be symptoms of motherhood burnout. Extreme exhaustion or feeling "drained" accompanied by a change in sleep habits or appetite are also indications of motherhood burnout.

    Psychological Symptoms of Motherhood Burnout

    • Feeling helpless, defeated, trapped, alone and detached from those around you are warning signs of burnout. Mothers who have lost their motivation, become negative, cynical or filled with self-doubt about their ability to parent effectively may also be experiencing motherhood burnout.

    Behavioral Symptoms of Motherhood Burnout

    • Isolating yourself from friends and family or withdrawing from your parenting responsibilities are symptoms of motherhood burnout. Using alcohol, drugs or food as a means of coping or taking frustration out on your children or partner should also be considered signs of burnout. Seek support if you are experiencing these or any signs of motherhood burnout.

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