Burnout Syndrome
Published by TheraMedicare | August 19, 2025
Introduction
Have you ever felt so exhausted that you lost motivation to work, even after taking a vacation? Or felt like a “robot” just going through the motions without any enthusiasm? If yes, you might be experiencing burnout syndrome.
According to a recent survey conducted by the Indonesian Mental Health Association (2024), 70% of workers experience burnout symptoms, with Jakarta and Surabaya being the cities with the highest burnout rates.
What is Burnout Syndrome?
Burnout is not just ordinary “tiredness.” According to the World Health Organization (WHO), burnout is a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.
3 Main Dimensions of Burnout:
- Emotional Exhaustion – Feeling mentally and physically drained
- Depersonalization – Becoming cynical toward work and colleagues
- Reduced Personal Achievement – Feeling incompetent and unproductive
Why is Burnout Increasing in Indonesia?
1. “Overtime is Dedication” Work Culture
Many companies in Indonesia still consider overtime as a sign of employee dedication, when in fact this is counterproductive.
2. Unhealthy Work-From-Home
The pandemic blurred the boundaries between home and office. Many workers actually work longer hours from home.
3. Economic Pressure
Inflation and rising living costs force many people to take side jobs, adding to stress levels.
4. Lack of Support System
There is still significant stigma around mental health in Indonesia, making people reluctant to seek help.
Signs You’re Experiencing Burnout
Physical Symptoms:
- ✅ Frequent headaches or migraines
- ✅ Sleep disorders (insomnia or oversleeping)
- ✅ Getting sick easily (decreased immunity)
- ✅ Changes in appetite
Emotional Symptoms:
- ✅ Feeling empty and unenthusiastic
- ✅ Easily irritated or angry
- ✅ Feeling like a failure and worthless
- ✅ Loss of motivation
Behavioral Symptoms:
- ✅ Excessive procrastination
- ✅ Isolating yourself from colleagues
- ✅ Decreased work performance
- ✅ Increased alcohol/caffeine consumption
Often Overlooked Impacts of Burnout
On Individuals:
- 3x increased risk of depression
- Cardiovascular disorders
- Decreased immune system
- Disrupted personal relationships
On Companies:
- High turnover rates
- Up to 40% decrease in productivity
- Increased absenteeism
- Rising employee healthcare costs
Strategies to Overcome Burnout: A Holistic Approach
1. Effective Self-Care
5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique:
- 5 things you can see
- 4 things you can touch
- 3 things you can hear
- 2 things you can smell
- 1 thing you can taste
Daily Anti-Burnout Routine:
- Wake up 15 minutes earlier for meditation
- Take 5-minute breaks every hour of work
- Light exercise for 20 minutes/day
- Digital detox 1 hour before bedtime
2. Setting Boundaries at Work
- Communicate time limits with supervisors
- Delegate tasks that can be delegated
- Say “no” to additional projects when overloaded
- Use vacation time optimally
3. Professional Therapy
If burnout is severe, don’t hesitate to seek professional help:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
- Change negative thought patterns
- Develop coping mechanisms
- Increase self-awareness
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR):
- Applied meditation techniques
- Reduce stress reactivity
- Improve focus and concentration
When to Seek Professional Help?
Immediately consult with a psychologist or therapist if:
- ❌ Symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks
- ❌ Thoughts of self-harm begin to emerge
- ❌ Unable to perform daily activities
- ❌ Using alcohol/drugs to cope with stress
- ❌ Relationships with family/friends are affected
Advanced Medical Technology for Stress-Related Physical Symptoms
At TheraMedicare, we understand that burnout often manifests in physical symptoms such as chronic headaches, muscle tension, and sleep disorders. Our advanced medical therapy equipment can help address these physical manifestations:
K-LASER CUBE 4 15W Medical Therapy Laser
- For tension headaches and muscle pain
- Non-invasive treatment for stress-related muscle tension
- Promotes cellular regeneration and reduces inflammation
- FDA-cleared technology with proven clinical results
LaserTRX Cold Laser Therapy
- For chronic pain management
- Helps reduce stress-induced physical pain
- Accelerates healing of stress-related injuries
- Portable and user-friendly for clinical settings
Neuro Pain Control NPC3 Scrambler Therapy
- For chronic pain and neuropathy
- Advanced pain management for stress-related conditions
- Drug-free alternative to pain medications
- Particularly effective for chronic pain syndromes
Tips to Prevent Future Burnout
1. Recognize Early Warning Signs
Keep a daily mood journal to detect stress patterns
2. Build a Support Network
Have at least 3 people you can talk to when stressed
3. Invest in Skill Development
Improve capabilities to reduce work burden
4. Regular Mental Health Check-ups
Just like medical check-ups, conduct routine mental health evaluations
Conclusion
Burnout syndrome is not a sign of weakness, but a signal that your body and mind need more attention. In this fast-paced era, maintaining mental health is as important as physical health.
Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or someone close to you is experiencing burnout symptoms, don’t delay seeking professional help.
Because your mental health is our priority.
References:
- Indonesian Mental Health Association Survey (2024)
- World Health Organization – Burnout Guidelines
- Journal of Occupational Health Psychology (2024)