I Can’t Stop Crying — And Other Indicators of Burnout

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I have to admit something. (Although, it’s likely not much of a revelation—my friends probably saw this coming.) I thrive on busyness. I enjoy balancing on that precarious line between being pleasantly occupied and overwhelmed.

Here’s the deal: this isn’t usually a significant issue. While stress is part of the equation, I genuinely believe that growth stems from external pressures that challenge us to improve. (But let’s not delve into our culture’s obsession with constant expansion when sometimes simply being enough is perfectly okay.)

However, it has become a major issue. I constantly fear that if I pause my writing, I’ll lose opportunities to write altogether. Although there’s some truth to this, I’ve exaggerated it in my mind.

I struggle with saying “No.”

But there’s more. Long before I faced online harassment or witnessed the alarming rise in violence against Asian Americans, I frequently felt on the verge of tears as if I might drown in sadness at any moment. My life wasn’t bad—on the contrary, it seemed like I was finally achieving my goals.

Yet, I reduced my workload, and the overwhelming sadness subsided. Then came the wave of anti-Asian hostility in the news, culminating in the tragic Atlanta shootings, which sent me spiraling back into incessant tears. I couldn’t control it.

I found myself constantly hugging my kids, perhaps leaving them confused and traumatized as I sobbed during our embraces.

What is Burnout?

Many think of burnout as simply running out of ideas or losing the ability to work, but it also has bodily manifestations (like crying excessively). Burnout is officially defined as exhaustion resulting from prolonged and intense stress. Whether stemming from work or personal life, burnout can severely impact your professional and social interactions as well as your health.

Generally, you feel persistently overwhelmed, drained, and incapable of fulfilling your responsibilities. The deeper the mental, emotional, and physical fatigue, the more stressed you become, leading to a diminishing interest in activities you once enjoyed.

Negative Effects of Burnout

The most troubling aspect of burnout is its inability to be contained—eventually, it seeps into all areas of your life. Burnout not only disrupts your social, personal, and professional relationships but can also cause lasting physical changes. Your immune system may weaken, making you more prone to colds and other illnesses.

Moreover, you may feel perpetually depleted, leading to decreased productivity and a sense of lifelessness, as if all energy has been drained from you. This can result in feelings of resentment, bitterness, and cynicism. While you may generally possess a low-energy demeanor or a pessimistic outlook, if it interferes with everyday functioning, you could be experiencing burnout.

Signs of Burnout

If you’ve found yourself searching for phrases like “Why am I crying all the time?” or “Why am I so drained?” it’s possible you’re on the brink of burnout. Here are some signs to look for:

1. Chronic Exhaustion: You start feeling tired, but eventually, you’re completely spent.
2. Feelings of Dread: Every day feels like a struggle, and waking up becomes a chore.
3. Insomnia: You may find it difficult to sleep, even when you’re physically exhausted.
4. Inability to Focus: Important details slip your mind, and you struggle to concentrate.
5. Irritability: If you find everything irritating that usually wouldn’t bother you, it’s a sign.
6. Physical Symptoms: You might experience headaches, stomach issues, or difficulty breathing. If this occurs, consult a healthcare professional.
7. Apathy and Hopelessness: You feel as though nothing matters, stuck in a cycle of negativity.
8. Decreased Performance: You feel overwhelmed by your workload, leading to missed deadlines and poor performance.

If You’re Feeling Burned Out

1. Reach Out for Support: Talk to friends, family, or professionals about your feelings. Sharing your burdens can lighten your load.
2. Reassess Your Priorities: Set boundaries around work and toxic relationships. Consider taking a break or reducing your workload to create space for introspection.
3. Prioritize Self-Care: Engage in physical activity, ensure you’re getting enough sleep, and maintain a balanced diet. Taking care of your body can boost your mood and overall health.

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Summary: Burnout can manifest in various forms, including chronic exhaustion, feelings of dread, and physical symptoms. Recognizing these signs is the first step towards addressing the issue. By reaching out, reassessing priorities, and focusing on self-care, you can begin to navigate your way out of burnout.