In 2017, sixteen percent of employees in The Netherlands were experiencing burn-out symptoms. Under particular stress are those working in education, healthcare and hospitality industry. Do you know how to recognise burn-out symptoms? Do you know how to recover from a burn-out?
The Good News and the Bad News
The good news is that the Netherlands is a country that experiences a low rate of burn-
out, compared to other European countries. That’s according to a study of 35 European countries carried out by Wilmar Schaufeli, a professor at the University of Utrecht.
The bad news is that it’s a figure that is increasing annually as employees are under pressure to do more with less. In 2007 burn-out rates were at 11%.
Employees’ expectations are also changing as they look to their employer to fulfil a need for purpose and not just a good compensation package. This mismatch can lead to mental stress and decreased satisfaction with your work situation.
If you are female you are more likely to suffer a burn-out than if you are male.
How to Recognise a Burn-Out
It’s important to recognise when the workplace is negatively impacting your mental health. It is also important to note that work stress is not the same as a burn-out, but working continually under a high level of stress can easily result in a burn-out.
A burn-out in name is clear – an emptiness, you have nothing left to give.
The three signs of emotional exhaustion, an increasing cynicism relating to your work and an increasing feeling of incompetence should not be ignored.
These 6 Warning Signs of a Burnout should set alarm bells ringing. A burn-out is diagnosed if the indicators persist for at least six months.
What to Do If You Are Suffering a Burn-Out
The first thing you should do if you believe you have a burn-out is talk to someone. A partner, close friend or family member is a good place to start, as well as your huisarts (family doctor).
A burn-out leaves you feeling mentally and physically exhausted and rest is one of the first steps to recovery. Take time out.
You also need to look after your physical and emotional self: 6 Things to Do to Recover From a Burnout.
Helpful Resources
- The Dutch website Stichting Burnout is an excellent resource to help, including a clear explanation in English of employer obligations in the case of employee burn-out.
- Amsterdam Mamas has great tips and has compiled resources for parents experiencing burn-out.
Evaluation After Recovery
One of the final steps of recovering from a burn-out is to avoid a repeat in the future. If your job is the cause of your stress then reassessing your working environment and job responsibilities is a good idea.
If continuing in the same situation is a danger to your mental and physical health it may be time to consider different options.
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