CONNECTIONS

IDAHO
ITD HOME
IDAHO DMV
ITD NEWS
HIGHWAY SAFETY
IDAHO STATE POLICE
TRAVEL SERVICES
STATE OF IDAHO

NATIONAL
AASHTO
AAMVA
AAA of IDAHO
FEDERAL HIGHWAYS
FEDERAL AVIATION
IDAHO STATE POLICE
NHTSA
NTSB
TRB
U.S. DOT

 

Idaho Transportation
Department
Public Affairs Office
P.O. Box 7129
Boise, ID 83707
208.334.8005
Fax: 208.334.8563
Email


Avoiding burnout

Business Psychology Associates
ITD's EAP provider
Most of us at times have felt overwhelmed by the pressures of work and the demands of family life.

Usually, we can find ways to put life back on an even keel: take a day off, get a good night’s sleep, or talk things over with a trusted friend or loved one. "Burnout" happens when strategies like these fail, and a person feels physically and emotionally drained by the stress of daily life.

Burnout can actually be a health hazard. People who are constantly under stress are more susceptible to heart disease, repeated injury, high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma and allergies. Burnout often leads to interpersonal difficulties, a "short fuse" and poor perspective.

Symptoms of undue stress include:

  • Constantly feeling as if life is out of control
  • Headaches, fatigue, irritability
  • Stomach upsets and indigestion
  • Tightness in the jaw, neck, shoulders and back
  • Difficulty sleeping or sleeping without feeling rested
  • Overeating or lack of appetite
  • A sense of isolation
  • Difficulty performing tasks or making decisions

Two or more of these symptoms for an extended time may signal the need for professional help.

For more information about maintaining a healthy work perspective and to learn about services provided by BPA see the on-line newsletter.

 

 

Published 9-8-06