Are you burnt out or having an existential crisis?

Introduction

In our fast-paced, demanding world, feelings of exhaustion and questioning your purpose can become overwhelming. However, it’s important to distinguish between burnout and an existential crisis, as they stem from different sources and require unique approaches for resolution. This post will explore the key differences between burnout and an existential crisis, their symptoms, causes, and ways to manage them.

What is Burnout?

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress. It occurs when you feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands. As the stress continues, you begin to lose interest and motivation, leading to decreased productivity and a sense of hopelessness.

Causes of Burnout

Burnout is typically work-related but can also stem from other areas such as caregiving or chronic stress. Common causes include:

1. Excessive Workload: Unmanageable workloads and long hours.
2. Lack of Control: Feeling powerless over your job or responsibilities.
3. Insufficient Rewards: Lack of recognition or rewards for your work.
4. Poor Work-Life Balance: Neglecting personal life due to work demands.
5. Unclear Job Expectations: Uncertainty about your role and responsibilities.

Symptoms of Burnout

Burnout manifests through various physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms:

• Physical Symptoms: Chronic fatigue, insomnia, headaches, muscle pain.
• Emotional Symptoms: Feelings of failure, helplessness, detachment, cynicism.
• Behavioural Symptoms: Withdrawal from responsibilities, procrastination, using food, drugs, or alcohol to cope.

What is an Existential Crisis?

An existential crisis involves deep, often troubling questions about your purpose, values, and the meaning of life. Unlike burnout, which is rooted in external stressors, an existential crisis is more internal and philosophical, stemming from a need to understand your place in the world.

Causes of an Existential Crisis

An existential crisis can be triggered by various life events and changes, such as:

1. Major Life Changes: Loss of a loved one, divorce, retirement.
2. Personal Failures or Achievements: Questioning the value and meaning of your pursuits.
3. Traumatic Experiences: Confronting mortality or significant suffering.
4. Milestone Ages: Reaching significant ages like 30, 40, or 50.

Symptoms of an Existential Crisis

An existential crisis is characterized by profound introspection and emotional upheaval:

• Deep Anxiety and Depression: Persistent feelings of unease and hopelessness.
• Obsession with Death: Frequent thoughts about mortality.
• Sense of Meaninglessness: Feeling that life lacks purpose or direction.
• Isolation and Loneliness: Withdrawing due to feeling misunderstood or disconnected.
• Intense Self-Reflection: Constantly analysing and questioning beliefs and actions.

Key Differences Between Burnout and an Existential Crisis

1. Root Cause:
   • Burnout: Arises from external stressors, primarily related to work or responsibilities.
   • Existential Crisis: Stems from internal questioning of life’s meaning and purpose.
2. Focus of Distress:
   • Burnout: Focused on specific areas of life, such as job or caregiving duties.
   • Existential Crisis: Encompasses broader questions about existence and identity.
3. Symptoms:
   • Burnout: Physical exhaustion, emotional detachment, and decreased performance.
   • Existential Crisis: Deep existential anxiety, philosophical questioning, and a sense of meaninglessness.
4. Resolution Strategies:
   • Burnout: Requires rest, stress management, and changes in workload or environment.
   • Existential Crisis: Involves philosophical exploration, finding personal meaning, and often seeking support or therapy.

Managing Burnout and Existential Crisis

Managing Burnout

1. Take Breaks: Ensure regular breaks and vacations to rest and recharge.
2. Set Boundaries: Establish clear work-life boundaries to prevent overworking.
3. Seek Support: Talk to a supervisor, seek counselling, or join a support group.
4. Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote physical and mental well-being.

Managing an Existential Crisis

1. Embrace Uncertainty: Accept that it’s okay not to have all the answers.
2. Seek Support: Discuss your feelings with trusted friends, family, or a therapist.
3. Explore Philosophy: Read philosophical works to gain new perspectives.
4. Reflect on Values: Consider what truly matters to you and what you want your life to represent.

Conclusion

While burnout and an existential crisis may share some overlapping symptoms, understanding their distinct causes and manifestations is crucial for effectively addressing them. Burnout is typically related to external stressors and requires practical steps to manage workload and stress. In contrast, an existential crisis is a profound internal struggle with life’s meaning, often needing deeper philosophical exploration and personal reflection. Recognizing the differences can help in seeking the appropriate support and strategies to navigate through these challenging experiences.

You may also be interested in our previous post about what an existential crisis is. Psychology Today has an insightful article on Are You Having an Existential Crisis?