How to Recognize and Overcome Burnout
Published: May 5, 2025
Feeling a little tired? Having trouble concentrating on tasks? Not able to feel totally rested? You might be burned out. Burnout happens to all kinds of people, and it is especially prevalent among people who work in fields like healthcare, public health, or education, where it is also called “compassion fatigue.” As we recognize National Mental Health Awareness month, it’s important to recognize the effects that burnout can have on gambling treatment and prevention professionals, as well as the ways that burnout can be a factor that puts people at greater risk of experiencing a gambling disorder.
The causes of burnout are different for each person. But one thing everyone who has experienced burnout shares is workplace or personal stress. Over time, that stress can cause real harm to your physical and emotional state, including burnout. Signs of burnout include physical and mental fatigue, a reduction in performance at work, generally cynical attitudes toward things you used to enjoy, and changes in your sleep.
When you’re burned out, it can be more difficult to be engaged in your work. Feelings of mental and physical exhaustion make it more challenging to give others your full attention, which can be especially challenging for treatment and prevention professionals who must connect with clients. For people who gamble, burnout can also make them more susceptible to using substances and engaging in harmful behaviors like disordered gambling.
The negative effects of burnout are significant. But here’s the good news: Burnout is temporary, and there are things you can do to recognize when burnout is happening to you or someone you work with. Try these strategies.
- Set boundaries between work and personal life: Be clear about where your work ends and your personal life begins. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to say no to things that intrude into your personal time.
- Say yes to you time: You can’t take care of others if you’re not taking care of yourself. Make the time for positive activities that will help you recharge, such as hobbies, exercise, and quality time with loved ones.
- Cope positively: Some burned-out people turn to activities they think will help them “turn off” or escape, such as alcohol, substance use, or gambling. But these activities won’t help. In fact, being burned out can make individuals more susceptible to addiction-related disorders, like a gambling disorder. If you encounter someone experiencing burnout, or are experiencing it yourself, engaging in responsible play and self-care can reduce your risk for these disorders.
Using gambling to cope with burnout? Or know someone who is? Don’t hesitate to call the free and confidential Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-589-9966 or text 4HOPE to 741741. Trained and understanding specialists are ready to take your call 24/7. And now, the Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network offers virtual telehealth services at no cost.