It's that time of the year when almost everyone feels the pinch of the load of this year's workload which ends in year-end fatigue. According to research, people experiencing year-end fatigue can experience symptoms such as irritability, low motivation, insomnia, generalised aching, and poor concentration.
OVERWORKED AND STRESSED
According to psychologist Dr Kgomotso Masokoane, end-of-year burnout is fatigue that manifests itself towards the end of the year. It is a direct result of being overworked and stressed. She said although there are many signs associated with feeling burnt out, fatigue is the most common. She explained that burnout can hurt one's mental health. "Fatigue is the feeling of constant tiredness or weakness. It can be physical, mental, or both and it can affect anyone. She said that experiencing burnout can have detrimental effects on mental health." Some people who are workaholics can experience emotional and physical tiredness. "Many people are working past their breaking point and are pushing through emotional and physical exhaustion with working from their home-based offices," she said. Time of year burnout is most prevalent.
Normally people expect burnout to start towards the end of the year or the festive season, Dr. Kgomotso explained that it can also start early."We normally see the burnout syndrome in November and December but this year I saw patients as early as July," she said.
THIS IS HOW YOU CAN VOID YEAR-END FATIGUE
PRACTICE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE: Engaging in regular physical activity benefits not just your body but also your mind. It has been shown that exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which can enhance your mood and lower stress levels, leading to increased happiness and energy. Consuming a nutritious diet helps keep your body properly fueled and functioning optimally, potentially enhancing your work or study performance.
ALLOW YOURSELF TO REST: Failing to take regular breaks throughout the year, especially during festive times, might lead to exhaustion. Step back from your tasks, stretch, take a stroll, or do a brief mindfulness practice to refresh your mind. These short breaks can enhance your concentration and overall wellness.
GET ENOUGH SLEEP: A crucial yet often overlooked aspect of self-care is ensuring you get sufficient rest. Lack of sleep can leave you feeling more fatigued and can negatively impact your concentration and productivity.
PLAN A HOLIDAY: A holiday is an opportunity to unwind and take a break from work and everyday pressures. This will give you a break from your daily routine and a chance to spend time with family and friends.
REFLECT AND CELEBRATE YOUR WINS: Take time to reflect on your accomplishments throughout the year. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. Acknowledging your achievements can boost your morale and motivation.
Source: https://www.psychreg.org/
