The festive season often involves more social activities, shopping and travel, which can disrupt regular routines and lead to burnout. Having a jam-packed diary of work drinks, Christmas dos and dinner parties might seem like a fun idea, but could quickly lead to fatigue if you don’t take some time for yourself. But what is social burnout? And how can we prevent ourselves from becoming physically and mentally drained amongst all the festivities in the run up to Christmas? What is burnout? “ Burnout is often used to describe a chronic build-up of stress without break,” explains Dr Sandi Mann, senior psychology lecturer at the University of Central Lancashire .
“This can lead us to ‘burnout’, like a wire that has had too much electricity running through it.” This can have both mental and physical consequences. “Signs of social burnout can include physical and mental fatigue, a sense of dread or reluctance towards upcoming events, irritability, difficulty focusing, and a desire to withdraw from social activities,” notes Christine Schneider , clinical psychologist and mental wellbeing coach at Cambridge Therapy Centre .
“Those experiencing social burnout may feel overwhelmed by even small interactions, the struggle to feel present, and may experience increased anxiety, especially when thinking about further social commitments.” Understand what your own personal preferences are “Accept what you like and dislike, what makes you anxious or what makes you feel.
