Burn-out Syndrome

Professional burnout is a state of emotional and physical discomfort closely related to employment and chronic stress. It is manifested by long-term physical or emotional exhaustion, which is supplemented by a feeling of being unfulfilled and of loss of interest in, and motivation to, work. Productivity decreases, which, in turn, brings on more exhaustion, reduces motivation and contributes to making one feel helpless, hopeless and irritable. Whatever the original cause, it is clear that experiencing “burn-out” can have a negative effect both on one’s physical and mental health. Burn-out Syndrome can affect many other areas of our lives, as well, including relationships at home and at work, as well as one’s social life. It is therefore important to address feelings of “burn-out” in a timely manner.

How to recognize Burn-out Syndrome?

Do you feel that:

every day is bad or is “good for nothing”
taking care of work or home is just a waste of time
you are constantly exhausted
most of the day you are engaged in activities that are either mind numbing or overwhelming
what you do has no sense or no one appreciates it

Physical symptoms of “burn-out” often manifest as:

fatigue
common headache or muscle pain
changes in appetite or sleep patterns
decreased immunity, more frequent illness

Emotional symptoms “burn-out” often manifest as:

feeling of uselessness and self-doubt
feelings of alienation that you are alone in the world
feeling trapped, defeated
loss of motivation, desire to work

You may also experience the following behavioral symptoms:

shirking your responsibilities
avoiding people or social situations
procrastinating or taking longer to complete tasks
using food or addictive substances as comfort or coping mechanisms
taking out your frustration on others
going to work late or leaving early, or missing work

Did you know?

There is a difference between symptoms of stress and symptoms of burn-out. 

Burn-out can be a result of stress, but it is not the same as feeling stressed or overworked. Stress is a response to “too much” work, which requires increased effort, but one can imagine that once it is under control, the stress will be over. By contrast, burn-out comes from “too little” of something: one feels too little energy and not enough interest; one can’t imagine positive changes or an end to the situation.

Stress makes us feel overwhelmed by responsibilities, “burn-out” makes us feel empty. Stress is also usually readily recognized, whereas Burn-out Syndrome is more subtle.

Contact Us

Please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or electronically. We will be happy to hear from you and to discuss with you the treatment options at NEO Centrum.

Treatment Options

NEO Centrum offers its clients two avenues for obtaining help: through our Outpatient Clinic (including in-person or online sessions) and through our comprehensive, in-residence treatment programs offered at our resident treatment facilities. The choice depends on the specific needs of the clients, the type of difficulties they face and the intensity of the approach they are able to devote themselves to. We offer services at residence clinics for Czech-speaking and English-speaking clients.

Residence Clinics

Modern, intimate and pleasant environment located in a remote part of Prague, designed for a small group of clients.

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Outpatient Care

The NEO Centrum outpatient clinic offers you immediate help with your problems through individual, group, couple and family therapy, counselling and coaching.

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