13/12/2025
What is burnout?
It has three core components:
Emotional exhaustion
Feeling drained, fatigued, or unable to cope
Sleep disturbances, headaches, muscle tension, low energy
Depersonalization (or cynicism)
Emotional distancing from work or people
Irritability, reduced empathy, feeling “numb”
Reduced personal accomplishment
Feeling ineffective, unproductive, or incompetent
Loss of motivation and satisfaction
Burnout is not the same as depression, but it can increase the risk of anxiety disorders, depression, cardiovascular problems, weakened immunity, and substance misuse if prolonged.
Why burnout often worsens during the holiday season?
Even though holidays are expected to be restful, they often increase stress due to:
Social and family expectations
Financial pressure
Travel fatigue
Disrupted sleep and routines
End-of-year work deadlines
Emotional triggers (grief, loneliness, unresolved conflicts)
How to take care of yourself during the holiday season
1. Protect your energy, not just your time
Say no to at least one non-essential commitment
Schedule rest before you feel exhausted
Leave buffer time between events
2. Maintain basic physiological needs
Burnout worsens when the body is depleted:
Sleep: Aim for consistent bed/wake times
Nutrition: Regular meals; don’t rely only on sugar, alcohol, or caffeine
Movement: Gentle exercise (walking, stretching) is enough
3. Set realistic expectations
Holidays do not have to be perfect to be meaningful
Limit comparison (especially on social media)
It’s okay if this season is “quiet” or different
4. Regulate stress, not eliminate it
Short, effective tools:
Slow breathing (inhale 4 sec, exhale 6 sec)
5–10 minutes of mindfulness or prayer
Short breaks away from noise and screens
5. Stay emotionally connected (on your terms)
Choose quality over quantity in social interactions
It’s valid to leave early or skip gatherings
Talk openly with someone you trust
6. Watch for warning signs that you need more support
Seek professional help if you notice:
Persistent exhaustion despite rest
Loss of interest or pleasure
Increased irritability or emotional numbness
Sleep problems lasting weeks
Thoughts of hopelessness or escape.
Make sure you get plenty of rest this festive season.