In a fast-paced and demanding work environment, some individuals find themselves constantly pushing the boundaries of their capabilities. While their commitment and success may be praised, they may also be silently suffering from a lesser-known condition called “burn-on.” Coined by psychiatrist Timo Schiele and psychotherapist Dr. Bert te Wildt, burn-on represents a chronic form of depressive exhaustion that often goes unnoticed. Unlike its acute counterpart, burnout, burn-on is characterized by a relentless drive to keep working despite the toll it takes on one’s social and private life.
The recently revised 11th edition of the World Health Organization‘s International Classification of Diseases recognizes burnout as an occupational phenomenon resulting from unmanaged chronic workplace stress. In contrast, burn-on is not acknowledged as a medical condition but rather described as a masked depression. Te Wildt explains that individuals with burn-on teeter on the edge of a breakdown but continue to carry the weight, concealing their exhaustion and depression behind a smile.
What sets burn-on apart from burnout is that individuals afflicted with burnout eventually break down and take sick leave, while those experiencing burn-on soldier on, trapped in a never-ending cycle of work. Unfortunately, many affected individuals fail to recognize the connection between their symptoms and their love for their job, often taking years before realizing something is amiss.
Burn-on thrives in societies where performance and success determine one’s social standing. It is especially prevalent in professions that demand excessive working hours or lack fixed schedules, such as nursing, medicine, therapy, and teaching. The constant responsibility for others contributes to the development of burn-on symptoms.
Experts highlight the significance of setting boundaries, particularly with others, in combating burn-on. Those who define themselves primarily through their achievements are especially vulnerable to this condition. The cognitive confinement to one’s job is evident in a relentless focus on effectiveness and performance, both in professional and personal life.
Despite their accomplishments, burn-on sufferers often harbor feelings of inadequacy, shame, and guilt. They struggle with a sense of never doing enough, leading to an inner void, despair, and joylessness. Burn-on not only drains individuals emotionally but also manifests in physical symptoms such as high blood pressure, back pain, headaches, and insomnia, as the body remains in a perpetual state of stress.
Recognizing the problem and seeking help is crucial for those experiencing burn-on. Establishing emotional and physical sanctuaries, where work is not the primary focus, can aid in recovery. Engaging in activities that resonate with personal interests and passions, as well as learning to say “no,” are essential steps towards reclaiming a healthy work-life balance. In severe cases, outpatient or inpatient therapy can provide the necessary support to develop coping strategies and address underlying factors contributing to the feelings of inadequacy and pressure to perform.
As the prevalence of burn-on continues to rise, it is vital for individuals and organizations to acknowledge its existence and take proactive measures to support mental well-being. By prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and redefining success beyond professional achievements, individuals can prevent burn-on from consuming their lives and rediscover the joy and fulfillment that lies beyond the confines of work.
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