Physical and Emotional Exhaustion

Physical and emotional exhaustion, also called "burnout" or an "emotional breakdown," is a health condition in which one's physical and emotional resources are depleted as a result of excessive job demands, too much work with little pay-off, a conflicted relationship or marriage, or unrealistic expectations imposed by oneself or others. Physical and emotional exhaustion can have serious implications, including ulcers, intestinal disorders, heart conditions and depression.

Causes

• Physical or emotional exhaustion occurs when the mind and body cannot handle pressures, for example, pressures at work, from a conflicted marriage, from a divorce or from parenting. One of the most common causes of physical and emotional exhaustion is pressure to perform well at school or on the job. Other common causes include having too many responsibilities, doing too much work with little pay-off, and being in an unhealthy and highly conflicted relationship or marriage.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of physical and emotional exhaustion fall into three categories: physical, psychological and behavioral. Some physical symptoms include lingering colds, shortness of breath, excessive sleepiness or sleeplessness and physical fatigue. Common psychological symptoms are a lack of interest in everyday activities, feelings of powerlessness, anger, bitterness, resentment, disgust, despair, frustration and anxiety. Behavioral symptoms may include increased family and marital conflict, anger outbursts, forgetfulness, poor concentration and low job performance.

Risks

• Physical and emotional exhaustion is a serious condition that can lead to physical and/or mental illness. Some physical conditions caused by physical and emotional exhaustion include ulcers, sexual dysfunction, weight loss or gain, high cholesterol and gastrointestinal problems. Common mental illnesses caused by physical and emotional exhaustion are generalized anxiety disorder and depression. Both the physical and psychological complications require treatment by a doctor or professional counselor.

Treatments

• In some cases, emotional and physical exhaustion can be treated by taking a vacation, meditating, exercising or maintaining an active social life outside of work. In other cases, more aggressive treatments, such as professional counseling and anti-depressive medication, are needed to get back on track and avoid serious health complications.

Prevention

• You can help prevent emotional and physical exhaustion by following a healthy lifestyle, taking responsibility for yourself and setting limits. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising several times a week and being good to yourself are the first steps to leading a healthy life. Taking responsibility for yourself means, among other things, not blaming others for your problems and planning your activities. Setting limits includes learning how to say "no" and speaking up when others place excessive demands on you.