Ways To Deal With Stress & Burnout

What are the signs and symptoms of stress? 

Physical: 

• Frequent Headaches 
• Breakouts, tired and dull looking skin
• Weakened immune system 
• Muscle tightness 
• Trouble sleeping 
• Digestive problems 

Mental:

• Tearfulness 
• Emotional exhaustion 
• Trouble concentrating 
• Getting overwhelmed by small things 
• Irritability and sadness 
• Nightmares and stressful dreams 

Stress can impact your mental health and manifest itself through burnout, anxiety, panic attacks and depression. 

Why is stress important?

Some stress is vital, it motivates us and keeps us going. Different levels of stress will fluctuate throughout our lives, some more difficult to deal with than others depending on the pressures and life changes we face. However, it is when periods of stress develop into more extreme, prolonged periods of stress that causes problems. Our bodies are not built to sustain this flight or fight mechanism for as long as we deal with the stresses of modern life. 

Why dealing with stress is important?

The stress we experience is normal and can vary throughout our lives. The world we live in is more and more stressful with more expectations on us; we all feel busier and more pressurised. Avoiding burnout means we need to look after ourselves from the inside out. Avoiding burnout and dealing with stress comes in many forms and should become a part of your daily lifestyle. 

How to deal with stress? 

Do what you enjoy

Ways to prevent stress include incorporating activities you enjoy as stress relief and a way to have a break without fail. For example, if your stress is work related, then the more you work, the more you may feel overwhelmed and stressed. Make time to cook your favourite meal and meet with a friend. It may seem futile, but it is key in avoiding burnout. 

Get your body moving

Regular exercise is a must and one of the simplest ways to prevent stress and how to deal with stress. Keeping up your fitness and relieving all of your frustrations through a physical outlet can stop you from feeling as overwhelmed. The release of endorphins and energy will improve your overall mood and help you sleep better.

Remember to relax 

Incorporate relaxation into your everyday routine, whether this is meditation, breathing exercises,  doing your nightly skincare regime, or seeing friends and family. 

Accept that sometimes not everything is within your control. 

Avoiding burnout may mean taking on less and putting yourself first. This is the ultimate form of self-care and you should not feel bad about it. 

If you are stressed and tired this could be impacting your skin, manifesting itself in the overproduction of sebum which blocks pores and causes blemishes. Take our Skin Diagnostic to find the right solution for you, we take every aspect of you into consideration including fluctuating stress levels. 

Author - Sara Poidevin-Hill