Burnout is a Real and Dangerous Thing

In our online society where the world is accessible 24/7, it’s easy to kid ourselves into thinking that our energy is also inexhaustible. But we are kidding ourselves in the end, because human energy needs to be renewed otherwise we burn out.

We’ve all been burned out on something or other—a once favorite food or a television show–but to be burned out on life is dangerous as well as draining.

And yet that is exactly what is happening more and more as our capacity to entertain ourselves and communicate with others is a constant thanks to the internet and mobile phones. Are we ever truly turned off anymore?

If you need more proof that burnout is a real thing, the World Health Organization has it! According to them, burn out is an official phenomenon or syndrome which is caused by chronic stress.

Because of their recognition of burnout as a harmful condition, in 2022 it will be accepted globally as a condition that healthcare providers will be allowed to diagnose and treat. Burnout itself is dangerous, but it also can lead to risky behavior.

What are some of the signs and symptoms of burnout? There are several and you may recognize one or more as affecting your life. First, do you become emotional for no obvious reason, often getting angry, crying, or feeling anxious?

Do you wish that you could spend more time with the people who matter most to you, and feel guilty because you don’t?

Are you angry or upset about how much time you need to put into school or work?

If you think that burnout may be getting the best of you, we’re here to help.

RedCliff Ascent is a therapeutic wilderness program, nestled between two mountain ranges in the high desert of Enterprise, UT. We focus on adolescents ages 13-17 who are struggling with various challenges from anxiety and depression, to school abandonment and the need to reconnect with their family. With over 25 years of experience, RedCliff uses a relational model and narrative therapy to drive an outcome and an evidence-based approach. RedCliff Recovery offers an experience like no other through a proven, 12-step, adventure-based wilderness program. For more information, call us today: 801-921-8488.