Burnout refers to a lack of energy, motivation, and a creeping sense of apathy that clouds every day thoughts and judgement. When we feel burnt out, mundane tasks get ten times harder and each day seems worse than the last. At times like these, self care is essential!
That’s what makes burnout so pervasive. You might not notice it, but once it’s in your life, it impacts everything. And even though we mostly associate burn out with our working lifestyles, your job isn’t the only thing that can be responsible.
Indeed, familial relationships can lead to burnout too. It’s less talked about, but it’s one we need to focus on more often. As such, here are three factors that could make it more likely for you to feel drained when at home too.
Something Always Leads to a Fight
Do you find it hard to talk to certain people? Do you sometimes feel like you’d rather not head home and face them again, because you know it’s going to end in a fight? Then either one or both of you could be dealing with burnout.
Emotions run high at the best of times in personal relationships, but when you’re both without bandwidth, those emotions will never get the chance to come down.
Don’t let this get any worse. Mention the possibility to your loved one and suggest avoiding certain topics for at least a few days until you both feel better.
Having to Care for Multiple People
Some people have more than themselves to care for. Some people are parents with children who depend on them. Some people are carers who help older relatives to look after themselves. Some people are even both.
Having to juggle all of these responsibilities can leave you with no time to catch your breath. You’re going to need a break at some point, but there’s a strong sense of guilt that makes you feel terrible for even wanting one.
This is burnout in disguise. Really, burnout makes it hard to be rational, especially when it comes to yourself.
But it’s not bad to need home health care solutions or to hire a babysitter when you’ve got nothing else on. If you’ve got the budget, use it! Give yourself time and space to focus on self care and replacing the batteries that have long been depleted.
When You’re Already Stressed
We all know a tough day at work gets you down. Going through a tough week, when you only have a weekend to recover, can bank the stress and make it impossible to shift.
Then you have to run errands, clean the house, cook dinner, help with homework, and bathe anyone incapable of doing it themself.
It’s no wonder you’re feeling so tired! If you’re already stressed, more work and no relaxation makes the grind feel like it’s never going to stop.
Yes, familial relationships can cause burnout. However, there’s a lot you can do to stop it in its tracks.
