Burnout can manifest in different ways, but here are some common signs:
Emotional exhaustion: Emotional exhaustion often looks like feeling empty, detached, or numb. You may have difficulty finding joy in things you used to enjoy or feel overwhelmed by even the smallest challenges. This can lead to irritability, anxiety, or even hopelessness.
Lack of motivation: When you started your recovery journey, you may have felt a strong sense of purpose or motivation to change. But if you’re burned out, that initial spark may start to fade. You might find yourself avoiding meetings, skipping therapy, or not sticking to your healthy routines.
Physical symptoms: If you are feeling burned out, you may experience headaches, fatigue, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, or other physical symptoms. These can be signs that your body carries more stress than it can handle.
Feeling overwhelmed by small tasks: Tasks that once seemed manageable may now feel like they’re too much to handle. Even things like daily self-care, attending meetings, or reaching out for support might feel overwhelming.
Negative thinking: Burnout can lead to a spiral of negative thoughts. You might find yourself questioning your ability to stay sober or feeling like you’re not doing enough, despite all your efforts. Negative thinking can drain your energy and make it even harder to stay on track.
Isolating from others: When you’re burned out, you may want to isolate yourself from others. You might start skipping meetings or avoiding friends and family. While isolation might feel like a way to protect yourself, it can make you feel lonely and make it harder to reach out for help.