Is Your fibro turning into burnout?

Is your fibro turning into burnout?

"Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress."

Do you feel everyday is a bad day, caring about things is a total waste of energy? Are you feeling a sense of helplessness or hopelessness? If you are feeling this way, please seek support...let your doctor know.

In a couple weeks it will be the anniversary of a friend's passing. She had severe burnout and lost her ability to cope. She has been on my mind a lot lately. Last year when it happened, I could not even discuss it. It was too painful...she was my friend and neighbor. I wish I could of helped her more. As her anniversary of her death gets closer, I feel the need to let others know about burnout.

Hugs, Robin

I think it's something we have to guard against daily. Burnout can sneak up on us, especially at the more stressful times in our lives--and also the busier times, when we're so preoccupied that we don't even realize how over-burdened we are.

So sorry about your friend, Robin--what a tragedy. Prayers and my sympathy.

...I had meant to add* that when I'm feeling some burnout, I try to change things in small ways, such as breaking down large projects into smaller ones, taking small trips to local cities and towns with my family when the weather is nice, going shopping or to flea markets, while being careful not to spend much money and cause myself more problems(!), even taking a trip to the local library.  Sometimes the little things can make all the difference. Even a short time outside can change a perspective.

There's always a need to remind myself, too, that I can only do one thing at a time, the dust on my windowsills can wait, and to try to enjoy the little bright spots in the day--even the smallest ones that are so easy to overlook.

And I can't forget having a long 'talk' with God, asking Him to help me get my priorities straight.  The verse "This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad" really speaks to me, especially on those tough days.

*Started a new post because the little editing pencil in my previous post didn't show up at first!  It's there now, though...oh well!

Thank You for your condolences. My friend and neighbor is greatly missed. I am blessed to have wonderful neighbors and friends. We are a close bunch and get together. When we are all together, I know we are all thinking...she should be here. We celebrate her life with memories and have shared our pictures of her.

Myself- sending you gentle hugs. I hope your upcoming vacation will be lots of fun and give you a needed rest :)

I agree that doing what we can to prevent burnout is important. Burnout is a gradual thing so taking time each day to relax is vital.

Sometimes we have to say no so that we can say yes to the things we really want to do.

Sending you all gentle hugs and wishing you all great days ahead!

Hugs, Robin

Thanks Lisa 

I'm hoping you are taking time every day for yourself to do something you love.

Joy, I'm so glad you are seeing the sunshine again

Take care and hope everyone takes time to enjoy the weekend

hugs, Robin

Robin - I have some days that are pitty party days. I get tired of hurting and would just love to be normal. Sometimes I will watch people and I see all the energy they have. I get real tired easy and I am ready for bed early. What keeps me going is that I try to remind myself how blessed I am.

Years ago, when I was working and my daughter was in grade school, I had reached burnout. My job was stressful, I tried to be supermom, was actively volunteering...it all became too much. I was pushing through exhaustion, taking on too many responsibilities. Feeling like a broken machine, rather than human I knew something had to give...I had to learn to say no and take time for myself. At that time, I gave up volunteering until years later after I quit work.

Dealing with the death of loved ones takes such an emotional toll. Celebrating life and keeping our loved ones's memory alive helps.

Caring for our emotional and physical health is especially important because of our chronic conditions. I'm glad for this forum because it is a place where we can share and care. I do feel truly blessed!

Hugs, Robin