STRESS & BURNOUT

 

ANGLER. Acrylic on canvas. By Grant Smith, Reuters data journalist, New York

 
 

Stress can keep us motivated and ‘on’ so we can function. Most journalists manage stress, and some thrive on it. However, an overload of stress can be burdensome and in some cases lead to burnout, notes CiC, Reuters’ 24/7 global trauma support provider and counselling service.

No one at Reuters – whether they cover central banks, sports, politics or war zones – should think of themselves as immune to stress or burnout.

Stress and Burnout

There are several levels of stress. Knowing the signs can often pre-empt a deterioration in your wellbeing.

Basic stress
Stress may arise from the circumstances of your life and career. Experience of trauma or existing conditions such as depression may influence your capacity to cope with future stress.

Some reactions may include:
Physical: Fatigue, headaches, poor sleep.
Mental: Forgetfulness, poor concentration, boredom.
Relational: Loneliness, withdrawal, intolerance.
Behavioral: Substance abuse, eating problems, overwork, missed deadlines.
Spiritual: Emptiness, loss of beliefs, cynicism.

Cumulative Stress
This is the most frequent form of stress experienced by journalists. It is not necessarily traumatic, and can comprise factors that build over time, eroding your resilience and productivity. Prolonged exposure without adequate rest, relaxation or other self-care strategies may have negative results. Cumulative stress can worsen during crisis news coverage or long-running stories.

Once the symptoms of cumulative stress are identified,  one can find ways to reduce the causes and develop better coping strategies.

Routine cumulative stresses can contribute to the risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Addressing cumulative stress with effective self-care and a robust support system can help one handle any traumas experienced.

Burnout
Burnout is a process, not an event. A build-up of cumulative stress slowly depletes one’s natural resources for coping. One’s system says enough is enough. Burnout often hits the most dedicated and motivated and can be characterised by deep exhaustion and a profound sense of disillusionment.

The sense of failure and frustration that comes with burnout can be overwhelming. While time off and rest can address the physical exhaustion, regaining enthusiasm for life can take longer.