Are You Burning Out?
Many people in recovery from alcoholism, addiction, co-dependency or gambling may get to a point that it all seems just too much or burnout a little in recovery efforts. This can be serious sign on the road to relapse, a bust. This article may help you think about the issues involved.
Burnout is subtle. It creeps up on you slowly. How do you know if you are burning out?
I know well the face of burnout. I found myself questioning my motives, feeling guilty, and being greatly misunderstood. Sometimes I was shamed for not “working the program!”
What are the signs of burnout?
As a professional counsellor I have researched burnout. According to the best research available on the subject there are three aspects of burnout:
1. Perception of Inequity/Unfairness/Injustice
When you start to feel like you are getting the short end of the deal, being mistreated, under-appreciated, the program is not working for you… You may be burning out.
2. Emotional Exhaustion
When you start to run out of emotional gas you know something is wrong! Some signs might be that you cry for no apparent reason.
3. Cynicism
When you start to resent or feel bitter towards those at meetings or your service work and/or love relationally, then something is wrong.
These are the three basic signs of burnout. Don’t wait to get help. Don’t wait until your recovery becomes a “scorched earth”, a bust where you cannot return ever again. Get help from those who understand burnout and it causes. Your sponsor, your higher power and the fellowship of your meetings.
Burnout may be a psychological illness or it may be denial, a spiritual malady or just plain stinking thinking.
See also;
- Stinking Thinking
- Are there Patterns to Denial Behavior?
- Workaholic
- Spiritual Health Blockages
- Touchstones, Daily meditations
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