Beyond Burnout webinar- What's next?

[BeyondBlue]

Hi everyone,

You’re probably here because you want to either prevent or recover from burnout, or you’ve just attended Beyond Burnout. We understand that this topic resonates deeply with many of us. Burnout can affect anyone, and discussing it openly is a powerful step toward healing, prevention, and knowing that you’re not alone.

If you’re unsure where to start your conversations about burnout, this is the space for you. Whether you want to share your own experiences, ask questions, or simply connect with others who understand what you're going through, you're in the right place.

If you're seeking additional support, here are some resources:

• Burnout and Mental Health: Including our Burnout Check-In Tool and practical tips on how to stay well at work
• Personal Stories: Read about people’s experiences with burnout

We’ll also use this space to post some of the questions and answers from the webinar discussion. Feel free to dive in and keep the conversation going.

Our webinar recording is now available to watch: Beyond Burnout Webinar recording

Thank you again for joining us — we’re glad you’re here. 💙

[BeyondBlue]

Question: If you have the ability to take time off work and you are experiencing burn out is there a suggested amount of time to take off to rest?

Answer: Great question! This can be an incredibly individual choice, and there may be no 'right' or 'wrong' answer! For some people, a longer period of time off may be beneficial, while for others, reducing their overall workload (for example, from full-time to part-time) can help work feel more manageable. Whatever you decide - taking that first step is huge and so important. 

[BeyondBlue]

Question: Am I the only one wanting to cry after hearing, almost word for word, is what I'm experiencing? 😩
According to a professional about two or three years ago, I was already in burnout, but I pushed through.
Now, I'm completely and utterly done (burnt out). My reputation has no doubt plummeted at work, because I've just not been able to do my job to the high standards I've had previously. This fact in itself stresses me out. 😞
But how do you afford to take time off, esp when you have a mortgage, kids, bills, etc (which we all have, of course). 😞

Answer: Thank you for sharing your story. You are not alone in this - many others here have mentioned wanting to take time off but also needing to keep afloat financially. It may be worthwhile checking in  with a people and culture representative from your workplace to discuss all options available. We hope there can be some extra tips here, too: Burnout and mental health. Another option is booking in with a GP to discuss a mental health care plan for subsidised sessions with a mental health practitioner. Even tiny steps can make a big difference.💙

[BeyondBlue]

Question: Sofie - Could you share that self-test quiz for early signs of burnout?

Answer: Sophie has her own fantastic energy quiz here: Energy Quiz; Beyond Blue also have a burnout check-in tool here: Burnout check-in tool

[BeyondBlue]

Question: You keep talking about "workplaces" what about the millions of people who work for themselves, and don't have people around them, and if not working can't afford to live, and the stress of loosing a roof over their head.

Answer: This is an important callout. While this webinar focuses on the workplace, burnout can absolutely occur for those working in small businesses, carers, those experiencing financial stressors, and everything in between.
If at any time you need support or to talk to someone, please contact Beyond Blue’s Support Service on 1300 22 46 36, or you can reach out to us via our website.  

For any small business owners, Beyond Blue also offers a specialised coaching program, here: New Access for Small Business Owners. Thank you for bringing this up.

[BeyondBlue]

Question: How do you tell the difference between burnout and bullying from a toxic workplace?

Answer: Great question. They can both be strongly related as a difficult work environment can absolutely contribute to burnout. It may be worthwhile going through our burnout checklist and looking at what resonates with you: Burnout check-in tool. Safe Work Australia also have a helpful resource on workplace bullying, here: Workers guide to workplace bullying

If this is something that you are experiencing, you deserve some support with this. Please know that you are always welcome to reach out to our Support Service if you would like to discuss this further on 1300 22 46 36. Everyone deserves to feel safe at work.

[BeyondBlue]

Question: Can you give examples of restorative practices please?

Answer: Thank you for your question. While it looks like this question was answered by our lovely panel, we also have some additional tips and resources here: Burnout and mental health. We also have a Wellbeing Action Tool that is a simple, practical way to plan wellbeing actions that work for you: Wellbeing Action Tool.

[BeyondBlue]

Question: Can Perimenopause/Menopause have a greater impact on burnout?

Answer: Good question. While we may be unable to address this specifically in the webinar, we do have some information on menopause/perimenopause and mental health here: Perimenopause, menopause and mental health. It is also worthwhile bringing this up with your GP if this is something that you are experiencing - you deserve to feel supported during this challenging time.

[BeyondBlue]

Question: If you start to lack the energy or motivation to engage in activities outside of work/hobbies/social etc. and trying to organise things gets overwhelming, what would you recommend?

Answer: Great question and something many of us can likely relate to - wanting to engage in these activities but, ironically, feeling too burnt out. Starting small can be a powerful step here. If you are not quite up to a large meetup, even a casual coffee with a friend, or a walk with a loved one, can go a long way towards helping us fill our cup back up. No step is too small 💙