Symptoms of Burnout
*Adapted from material presented by R. James; Crisis Intervention Strategies; Thomson Books: Belmont. 2008.
Items highlighted in red are the most common symptoms of depression. If you are experiencing 2 or more of the symptoms highlighted in red, you need to seek the advice of a professional (doctor, licensed counselor, psychologist, etc.)
Behavioral Symptoms
Physical Symptoms
Attitudinal Symptoms
Relational Symptoms
Spiritual Symptoms
Answer these Questions
- How many warning signs do you currently see in your life? (5 or more is significant)
- How serious are the issues? Rate the intensity of each warning sign that you checked from 1 to 5 – with five being most serious.
- How long has this warning been going on? Put a time beside each one you checked.
How are you doing?
The more warning signs you have, the more intense they are and the longer they have been present (especially if more than a month) the more serious your situation.
What are some initial steps to take?
Reach out – to a doctor, counselor, someone who understands and has experienced and recovered from burnout. Someone from the Thrive team would be happy to speak with you. You can reach us at info@thriveministries.ca
Rest – Sleep whenever you feel tired. Focus on doing things that replenish you (Keeping your ‘Tanks’ Filled exercise)
Reduce – Do only what you absolutely must. Recognize that you may not be thinking clearly enough to identify these things. You may need to take time off from your ministry responsibilities. Ruthlessly cut your responsibilities (Try our What’s on Your Plate exercise)
A Word about Depression
- Everyone experiences unhappiness, and many people may become depressed temporarily when things don’t go as they would like.
- Depression becomes an illness, or clinical depression, when the feelings described above are severe, last for several weeks, and begin to interfere with one’s work and social life.
- The items in the Symptoms of Burnout list that are in red print are the most common symptoms of depression. Anyone who is experiencing 2 or more of the symptoms in red print needs to seek the advice of a professional (doctor, licensed counselor, psychologist, etc.)
- If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or others you need to seek medical attention immediately.
- Depression is the most treatable mood disorder. Most people who suffer from depression are helped by the treatment they receive. This usually includes medication and/or psychological counseling.
- Support from family and friends can make a big difference. Tell them how you are feeling.
The information contained in this document is not meant to replace diagnosis or treatment of burnout or depression by a qualified practitioner. We highly recommend that you seek the advice of a doctor or licensed counselor if you are experiencing symptoms of burnout or depression.