Stress and Burnout

Stress

Stress is a significant health problem in Australia. About one third of children and half of adults report high levels of stress. Research shows that young women are more likely to report high levels of stress compared to young men, and people that identify as LGBTIQA+ report overall much higher levels of stress.

The leading causes of stress for adults in Australia include the cost of living, health concerns (whether your own health or the health of a loved one), relationships and work-related issues. While children share some stressors with adults, their pressures often revolve around academic expectations at school, bullying and social issues, digital and online safety, and uncertainty about the future (including careers, climate change and housing affordability).

Research shows that prolonged stress damages nearly every system in the body increasing the risks of physical health problems including chronic pain, digestive problems such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), heart disease, headaches and migraine, immune problems, hypertension (high blood pressure), sleep problems (insomnia), stroke, obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. Research also shows that stress also harms our emotional health and mental well-being. Studies show that prolonged stress can increase the risk of problems such as anxiety and depression, burnout, difficulties with attention, emotional regulation, learning and memory, and may also increase the risk of developing dementia (Alzheimer’s Disease).

It makes sense to take steps to help manage stress. Experts agree that focusing on a “brain healthy lifestyle” including a balanced diet, connecting with others, good quality sleep and regular exercise can often make a big difference.

Burnout

When stress levels are very high and last a long time people can suffer burnout. Burnout is a state of emotional, mental and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. Research indicates that Australia is the most “burnt out” nation in the world with over half of Australians experiencing burn out. Whilst studies show there has been a sharp increase over the past few years across all age groups ‘Gen Z’ is particularly affected with over 85% suffering from burnout.

The symptoms of burnout can differ from one person to another but often include anxiety, brain fog, depression, difficulties with attention and memory, exhaustion (both emotional and physical), insomnia, reduced motivation and performance, procrastination and withdrawal from friends or family.

The good news is that recovery from burnout is possible. The first important step it to recognise you are burnt out, and it is important to share this information with at least one trusted person (such as family, friend, GP or other health professional, spouse). Many people also find it helpful to create a ‘Burnout Recovery Plan’ that focuses on rest, self-care (prioritising a balanced diet, connecting with others, good quality sleep and regular exercise) and setting work/home boundaries.

Drug-free treatment for Stress and Burnout

It is important to seek professional help if you are feeling overwhelmed and need extra support. Everyone is different and there is no “one size fits all” approach to helping people with stress and burnout. At Perth Brain Centre we believe that people should be able to make an informed choice based upon the range of treatments now available.

Perth Brain Centre leads a pioneering approach to helping people with stress and burnout, focussing on the brain’s natural ability to change, known as neuroplasticity. Utilising advanced QEEG Brain Scans we gain unique insights into how the brain functions. This valuable information guides the development of truly personalised, effective, evidence-based and drug-free treatments including Biofeedback Training, Neurofeedback Therapy and tDCS (Trans-Cranial Direct Current Stimulation) that work by “re-training” or “re-wiring” the brain offering a revolutionary path to recovery and better health.