Are you experiencing burnout? Learn about burnout long term effects and find out how you can take steps to prevent them. Read more here.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Burnout Long Term Effects
Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated stress. While it commonly stems from problems at work, it can manifest in other aspects of life as well. When unaddressed, burnout can lead to a multitude of long-term effects on both mental and physical health, making it crucial to recognize the early signs and take preventive measures.
Understanding and recognizing burnout symptoms can play a crucial role in mitigating the long-term effects. Exhaustion, inability to cope with daily life, and a sense of reduced accomplishment are just a few common indications of burnout. Along with these mental health challenges, burnout can have a significant impact on physical health, increasing vulnerability to illnesses and causing long-lasting changes in the body.
Key Takeaways
- Burnout is a state of exhaustion caused by prolonged stress and can have long-term effects on mental and physical health.
- Recognizing early symptoms, such as exhaustion and reduced accomplishment, can help individuals address burnout before it progresses.
- Focusing on self-care and seeking support from employers and professionals can aid in preventing burnout and alleviating its consequences.
Understanding Burnout
Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion caused by prolonged or repeated stress, typically associated with work-related problems 1. Psychologist Herbert Freudenberger first introduced the concept of burnout in the 1970s, and since then, numerous research studies have been conducted to better understand its causes, consequences, and prevention strategies.
Chronic stress is a primary factor in the development of burnout 2. It can manifest in various forms, such as excessive workload, lack of autonomy, poor work-life balance, and unsupportive work environments. When continually exposed to such stressors, individuals may experience burnout, leading to negative outcomes for their mental and physical health.
The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) is the most widely used tool to measure and assess burnout 3. It consists of three dimensions: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and decreased personal accomplishment. By analyzing an individual’s responses, the MBI can help identify the extent of burnout and the necessary interventions.
Long-term effects of burnout can include a wide range of physical and mental health issues. Some key effects that have been identified in research include:
- Decreased job satisfaction and productivity4
- Increased risk of coronary heart disease5
- Increased risk of anxiety and depression6
- Altered immune system responses, potentially leading to increased infections7
(Table displaying key facts and URL links)
| Key Fact | Source URL (Link) |
|---|---|
| Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion | 1(https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/burnout) |
| Chronic stress is a primary factor in the development of burnout | 2(https://hbr.org/2021/02/beyond-burned-out) |
| The MBI is the most widely used tool for burnout assessment | 3(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4911781/) |
| Burnout can lead to decreased job satisfaction and productivity | 4(https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/burnout/art-20046642) |
| Burnout increases the risk of coronary heart disease | 5(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27253245/) |
| Burnout increases the risk of anxiety and depression | 6(https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0122861) |
| Burnout can alter immune system responses | 7(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0889159118304344) |
Understanding burnout and its long-term effects can help individuals and organizations develop appropriate strategies to mitigate risks and promote mental well-being. Early detection and intervention, as well as creating supportive work environments and encouraging self-care, can contribute to preventing burnout and its consequences.
Footnotes
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/burnout ↩ ↩2
- https://hbr.org/2021/02/beyond-burned-out ↩ ↩2
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4911781/ ↩ ↩2
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/burnout/art-20046642 ↩ ↩2
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27253245/ ↩ ↩2
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0122861 ↩ ↩2
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0889159118304344 ↩ ↩2
Recognizing Burnout Symptoms
Burnout can severely affect an individual’s emotional, physical, and mental well-being. The three main categories of burnout symptoms are emotional symptoms, physical symptoms, and mental symptoms. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial in taking preventative measures and getting appropriate help.
Emotional Symptoms
Emotional symptoms often become noticeable in the early stages of burnout. Common emotional symptoms include:
- Emotional exhaustion is feeling emotionally drained or unable to recharge after work or daily activities.
- Irritability: Becoming easily annoyed or angered, even over minor issues.
- Loss of motivation: A decreased drive to complete tasks or achieve goals.
If left unchecked, these emotional symptoms can severely impact one’s mental health.
Physical Symptoms
As burnout progresses, physical symptoms may manifest. These can include:
- Fatigue: Constant tiredness and lack of energy, even after a full night’s sleep.
- Headaches: Frequent headaches, which may become more pronounced during stressful situations.
- Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, leading to poor sleep quality.
Long-term burnout can also increase susceptibility to colds and flu.
Mental Symptoms
Lastly, burnout can result in various mental symptoms that negatively affect overall well-being. Key mental symptoms are:
- Reduced performance: Decline in work or task performance, marked by decreased focus or productivity.
- Negative attitudes: Increased negativity toward oneself, others, or specific aspects of life or work.
- Loss of personal identity: A sense of disconnection from one’s own values, interests, or sense of self.
Research indicates that individuals experiencing burnout are 63% more likely to take a sick day due to the impact on their mental and physical health.
| Key Fact | URL Link |
|---|---|
| Emotional exhaustion | Verywell Mind |
| Physical health impact (insomnia) | Mayo Clinic |
| Increased sick day likelihood | Positive Psychology |
Recognizing and addressing burnout symptoms is essential for maintaining emotional, physical, and mental health. By being aware of the signs, individuals can take adequate steps to prevent burnout and its long-term effects.
Burnout and Mental Health
Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged or repeated stress, often related to one’s job. It can manifest in various ways and affect various aspects of mental health, leading to long-term issues if left unaddressed 1.
Depression and Anxiety
Burnout can increase the risk of developing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Chronic stress and burnout can lead to constant energy depletion, which can exacerbate or even trigger episodes of depression and anxiety. The experience of burnout can leave individuals feeling powerless and overwhelmed, thereby adversely affecting their mental health.
Cynicism and Depersonalization
Cynicism and depersonalization are two significant dimensions of burnout, as characterized by the World Health Organization. Cynicism refers to negative or critical attitudes towards one’s job, while depersonalization involves feeling emotionally detached from work and colleagues. Both of these dimensions can have detrimental effects on an individual’s interpersonal relationships and professional efficacy.
Focus and Cognitive Impairment
Burnout can also lead to cognitive impairment, affecting an individual’s ability to focus, think clearly, and make decisions. Prolonged exposure to high stress levels can cause elevated cortisol levels, impairing cognitive function and creating difficulties in attention, memory, and problem-solving. This, in turn, can reduce productivity and hinder personal and professional growth.
| Key Fact | URL |
|---|---|
| Depression and anxiety can be triggered or exacerbated by burnout | source |
| Burnout is characterized by cynicism and depersonalization | source |
| Prolonged stress can lead to cognitive impairment | source |
Footnotes
Effects on Physical Health
Heart Disease
Burnout can significantly affect an individual’s physical health, particularly in relation to heart disease. Prolonged exposure to stress can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular problems, as the body’s stress response system remains consistently activated1. This can result in higher blood pressure, increased heart rate, and the constriction of blood vessels, all of which contribute to a higher risk of heart disease2.
High Blood Pressure
Chronic stress, such as that experienced during burnout, can lead to long-term activation of the stress response system, causing the release of stress hormones like cortisol3. These hormones can contribute to high blood pressure, as they cause blood vessels to constrict and the heart rate to increase4. Over time, these changes to the cardiovascular system can result in persistent high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke5.
Type 2 Diabetes
Burnout can also be associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Chronic stress has been shown to affect the body’s ability to maintain healthy glucose levels, as it can lead to insulin resistance – a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes6. Moreover, individuals experiencing burnout may be more likely to engage in behaviors that can contribute to the onset of diabetes, such as adopting a sedentary lifestyle and consuming unhealthy diets7.
Key Facts
| Fact | Source |
|---|---|
| Prolonged exposure to stress can increase the risk of heart disease | 1(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5627926/) |
| Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure | 3(https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037) |
| Long-term activation of stress response can lead to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes | 6(https://psychcentral.com/stress/long-term-effects-of-chronic-stress-on-body-and-mind) |
Footnotes
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5627926/ ↩ ↩2
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037 ↩
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037 ↩ ↩2
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037 ↩
- https://parade.com/1341134/jessicasager/physical-symptoms-burnout/ ↩
- https://psychcentral.com/stress/long-term-effects-of-chronic-stress-on-body-and-mind ↩ ↩2
- https://parade.com/1341134/jessicasager/physical-symptoms-burnout/ ↩
Burnout in the Workplace
Job Burnout
Job burnout is a specific kind of work-related stress, characterized by physical or emotional exhaustion, a reduced sense of accomplishment, and loss of personal identity. It is not considered a medical diagnosis; however, some experts believe conditions like depression may underlie burnout 1. Generally, burnout develops gradually as a prolonged response to chronic job stress 4. People with heavy workloads, long hours, or difficulty achieving work-life balance are often more susceptible to experiencing burnout.
Workplace Stress
Workplace stress has become increasingly common in recent years. The American Psychological Association’s 2021 Work and Well-being Survey revealed that 79% of US adult workers experienced work-related stress in the month before the survey 3. The implications of workplace stress should not be underestimated, as it can contribute to increased job dissatisfaction, low morale, and a heightened risk of job burnout.
Work Environment
The work environment plays a crucial role in employee well-being and can contribute to burnout when employees have little or no control over their work 4. Factors such as demanding job requirements, insufficient support, and unclear expectations can foster a stressful work environment, further increasing the risk of burnout. Additionally, those working in helping professions, like healthcare, are more susceptible to experiencing workplace burnout due to the emotionally taxing nature of their work.
| Key Fact | Source URL |
|---|---|
| Burnout not a medical diagnosis | 1 |
| 79% of US workers experienced work-related stress | 3 |
| Burnout develops gradually | 4 |
| Work environment plays a crucial role | 4 |
Factors Contributing to Burnout
Lack of Support
A lack of social support from colleagues and supervisors can significantly contribute to burnout. This might include inadequate assistance with workload, a lack of emotional support, or an absence of positive feedback. Workers who feel isolated are more likely to experience heightened stress levels, which can eventually lead to burnout. A supportive work environment can help employees feel valued, better manage stress, and reduce the risk of burnout Verywell Mind.
Lack of Control
Employees with little control over their workload, schedule, and workplace decisions may be more susceptible to burnout. Unclear job expectations can also add to the problem. A sense of powerlessness might lead to increased workload and decreased personal and professional satisfaction. Addressing these issues by allowing employees to make decisions affecting their jobs and setting clear expectations can help mitigate the risk of burnout Mayo Clinic.
Chronic Stress
Chronic stress is another significant factor contributing to burnout. An excessive workload without opportunities for rest and recovery might lead to mental and physical exhaustion, eventually causing burnout. Employers need to be aware of the potential consequences of chronic stress and find ways to help employees manage their workload more effectively Harvard Business Review. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) has included burnout in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as a phenomenon exclusive to the workforce PMC.
Key facts:
- Burnout can be caused by lack of support, lack of control, and chronic stress.
- Supportive work environments can help employees manage stress and reduce the risk of burnout. (source)
- Addressing unclear job expectations and allowing employees to have control over their work can reduce the risk of burnout. (source)
- Employers should help manage workload and stress to avoid burnout. (source)
- WHO has included burnout in ICD-11 as a phenomenon exclusive to the workforce. (source)
Impact on Relationships and Happiness
Burnout can have a significant impact on both personal relationships and overall happiness. One of the main effects of burnout on relationships is the emotional disengagement that can occur when an individual feels overwhelmed and exhausted. This disengagement can lead to a general sense of cynicism and moodiness, which can strain a person’s relationships with their partner, friends, and family.
In addition to emotional disengagement, burnout can cause increased irritability and a lack of motivation. This can negatively impact a person’s happiness and overall quality of life. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, nearly 3 in 5 employees reported negative impacts of work-related stress, including a lack of interest, motivation, or energy.
Furthermore, the stress from one’s job can spill over personal relationships, as negative emotions and burnout can transfer to a person’s partner or family members. This can contribute to emotional distance, miscommunication, and conflicts within relationships. As a result, maintaining a healthy work-life balance and managing stress can be essential in preserving relationships and happiness.
Some key facts related to the impact of burnout on relationships and happiness are provided in the table below:
| Fact | Source |
|---|---|
| Emotional disengagement is a sign of burnout | Psychology Today |
| Nearly 3 in 5 employees report negative impacts of work-related stress | APA |
| Stress from one’s job can spill over into personal relationships | Psychology Today |
Effect on Productivity and Motivation
Burnout, a state of physical and emotional exhaustion often coupled with reduced accomplishment and loss of personal identity, can significantly impact an individual’s productivity and motivation at work 1.
One of the primary effects of burnout is a marked decrease in productivity. Employees experiencing burnout may struggle to complete tasks efficiently and face difficulties meeting deadlines. This performance decline can negatively affect team dynamics and overall work output 2. A study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that long-term sickness absence, lasting over two weeks, positively correlated with increased job burnout 3.
Alongside decreased productivity, burnout can also lead to a reduction in motivation. Employees who are burned out may lose interest in their work or no longer find it fulfilling, resulting in decreased engagement and a lower commitment to their job 4. This can impact not only their personal accomplishments but also the values they once held regarding their career.
The connection between burnout and reduced motivation may also manifest in increased mental distance from one’s job or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to work5. This disengagement can cause employees to question their professional efficacy, ultimately contributing to a vicious cycle of lowered productivity and motivation.
| Fact | URL |
|---|---|
| Decreased productivity due to burnout | NCBI |
| Reduction in motivation and increased mental distance | American Psychological Association |
| Long-term sickness absence positively correlated with increased burnout | Mayo Clinic Press |
Footnotes
Burnout and Self-Care
Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It occurs when individuals feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands1. Self-care plays a crucial role in preventing and mitigating the adverse effects of burnout.
Practicing regular self-care is essential in managing stress and maintaining overall well-being. One effective self-care strategy is taking regular breaks throughout the day. Research indicates that short breaks can improve focus, reduce stress, and increase productivity2. Individuals should disconnect from work-related tasks and engage in activities that promote relaxation during these breaks.
Maintaining a healthy diet also contributes to managing burnout. A balanced and nutritious diet gives the body the necessary energy to cope with stress and stay mentally sharp. Incorporating essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, can significantly improve mental and physical health3.
Here are some measures to practice self-care and combat burnout:
| Key Fact | URL Link |
|---|---|
| Regular breaks | source |
| Healthy diet | source |
To sum up, incorporating self-care practices such as taking regular breaks2 and maintaining a healthy diet3 into one’s daily routine can help manage and prevent burnout effectively. By prioritizing self-care, individuals can enhance their resilience to stress, improve their overall well-being, and consequently reduce the chances of experiencing burnout.
Footnotes
Preventing Burnout
Preventing burnout is essential for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life. You can use several strategies to protect yourself from the long-term effects of burnout. This section will focus on three key areas: Balancing Work and Life, Exercise and Diet, and Psychological Support.
Balancing Work and Life
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is crucial for preventing burnout. Taking breaks, setting boundaries, and prioritizing personal time can help you maintain this balance. Consider the following tips:
- Establish a clear distinction between work and personal time.
- Set realistic expectations and avoid overcommitting to work tasks or projects.
- Delegate tasks and share responsibilities at work.
- Incorporate hobbies and activities that bring you joy outside of work.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance can significantly reduce your risk of burnout.
Exercise and Diet
Physical health plays a critical role in preventing burnout. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help you manage stress, improve mental health, and maintain overall well-being. Some recommendations include:
- Add 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week.
- Eat a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Stay well-hydrated, aiming for at least eight cups of water daily.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption.
A healthy exercise and diet routine can boost your resilience to stress and burnout.
Psychological Support
Seeking psychological support is a valuable tool for preventing burnout. Connecting with a therapist or counselor, participating in stress management programs, or joining a support group can help you navigate the challenges of work and life. These resources can provide you with techniques to cope with stress effectively and reinforce resilience. Some key factors include:
- Build a strong support network of friends, family, and coworkers.
- Consult a mental health professional for personalized guidance.
- Engage in self-care practices like meditation, mindfulness, yoga, or journaling.
Utilizing psychological support resources can help address the root causes of stress and burnout and provide critical tools to prevent their long-term effects.
| Key Fact | Source URL |
|---|---|
| Work-life balance | HelpGuide.org |
| Exercise | Healthline |
| Psychological Support | Mayo Clinic |
How Employers Can Help
Fostering a Supportive Environment
Creating a supportive work environment is key to combatting burnout among employees. Employers can start by providing resources and tools to help employees succeed. One effective strategy is to instill a sense of psychological safety, which allows employees to feel comfortable sharing their feelings and ideas without fear of negative consequences [^1^]. Encouraging open and empathetic communication is also crucial, as it can alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness in the workplace [^2^].
Increasing Autonomy
Giving employees greater control over their work can help reduce the risk of burnout. Autonomy can be fostered by encouraging employees to make decisions about their tasks, schedules, and priorities. This sense of empowerment may lead to increased job satisfaction and engagement and reduced stress levels[^3^]. Employers can create a sense of ownership and responsibility by actively involving employees in decision-making processes, ultimately improving overall well-being.
Promoting Regular Breaks
Encouraging employees to take regular breaks during the workday can also significantly impact mental health and productivity. Breaks allow employees to recharge, de-stress, and return to work with a refreshed mindset. Employers can encourage this by implementing policies that support regular breaks and work-life balance, such as flexible work schedules, remote work options, and establishing designated break areas[^4^].
Mentions
Special Focus on Different Professions
Burnout in Teachers
Burnout in teachers is a significant issue, as it impacts the educators and the students they teach. The long-term effects can include emotional exhaustion, reduced teaching efficacy, and high turnover rates. One key finding is that 79% of teachers reported experiencing work-related stress within the past month.
| Fact | URL |
|---|---|
| 79% of teachers reported experiencing work-related stress within the past month | apa.org/monitor |
Burnout in Nurses
Nurses are also highly susceptible to burnout, facing demanding work conditions, long hours, and high pressure levels in hospitals and other healthcare settings. Not surprisingly, nurses experience high emotional exhaustion, compassion fatigue, and decreased job satisfaction. According to a study on job burnout, negative consequences of burnout among nurses include physical, psychological, and occupational issues.
| Fact | URL |
|---|---|
| Burnout consequences in nurses include physical, psychological, and occupational issues | ncbi.nlm.nih.gov |
Burnout in the Medical Field
Beyond nursing, the broader medical field is impacted by burnout as well. Physicians, in particular, face unique stressors, such as demanding workloads, administrative burdens, and ethical dilemmas. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized burnout as an occupational phenomenon, affecting many professionals within the medical field. Burnout can lead to negative outcomes, such as decreased quality of patient care, increased risk of medical errors, and higher rates of attrition among healthcare professionals.
| Fact | URL |
|---|---|
| The WHO recognizes burnout as an occupational phenomenon affecting the medical field | who.int/news |
Studies on Burnout
Burnout has been a subject of significant research, especially given its negative impact on individuals and economies. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognized this syndrome in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as a phenomenon exclusive to the occupational context 1.
A systematic review of prospective studies highlighted job burnout’s physical, psychological, and occupational consequences. This research found links between burnout and health issues such as cardiovascular diseases, insomnia, and depression. In the context of the workplace, burnout has been associated with reduced job satisfaction, decreased productivity, and increased turnover rates.
The ongoing pandemic has further fueled burnout, with heightened rates across the globe. In a 2021 report by the American Psychological Association, 79% of US adult workers disclosed that they experienced work-related stress in the month before the survey. The pandemic’s effects on workload, mental health, and overall work-life balance have affected millions of individuals.
Research conducted in Sweden investigated new directions in burnout studies and explored its prevalence and associated factors. This study reemphasized the importance of societal and organizational perspectives and called for more interdisciplinary research on burnout.
It is important to note that burnout and its related consequences are not equally distributed across gender lines. A Harvard Business Review article reported that women are more susceptible to burnout than men. This disparity is attributed to numerous factors, including the disproportionate impacts of the pandemic on women’s careers and the presence of gender-specific stressors in the workplace.
| Key Fact | URL Link |
|---|---|
| Burnout recognized in ICD-11 | Link |
| A systematic review on burnout consequences | Link |
| APA survey on work-related stress | Link |
| A Swedish study on burnout research | Link |
| Gender disparity in burnout | Link |
In conclusion, burnout remains an essential topic for research, given its implications on individuals’, organizations’, and society’s well-being. As new challenges arise, such as the ongoing pandemic, understanding and addressing burnout will continue to be critical in improving public health and supporting the well-being of workers globally.
Footnotes
Frequently Asked Questions – Burnout Long Term Effects
What are the long-term consequences of burnout on mental health?
Burnout can have long-lasting effects on mental health. In particular, it may lead to an increase in depression, anxiety, and other psychological disorders. The emotional exhaustion associated with burnout may persist even after the stressors leading to burnout have been reduced or eliminated.
How can burnout impact physical well-being in the long run?
Chronic burnout can also have adverse effects on physical health. With time, it has been associated with increased risks of developing serious medical problems such as atrial fibrillation and type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, those experiencing burnout may face a weakened immune system, making them more susceptible to illness.
Can prolonged burnout affect workplace productivity?
Yes, burnout can negatively impact workplace productivity. Burnout results in physical and emotional exhaustion, so individuals may become less efficient and focused at work. Moreover, 79% of employees experiencing work-related stress might begin to exhibit job dissatisfaction, which could lead to higher rates of absenteeism and staff turnover.
What are the lasting effects of burnout on personal relationships?
The long-term effects of burnout can extend to personal relationships as well. Burnout can cause an individual to become more irritable, less patient, and more prone to conflicts with friends and family. It can lead to emotional disconnection and challenges maintaining a nurturing, supportive network, which is crucial for well-being and mental health recovery.
How might burnout contribute to long-term health issues?
In addition to the previously mentioned risk of atrial fibrillation and type 2 diabetes, burnout can contribute to other long-term health issues. A weakened immune system may increase susceptibility to infections and diseases. Additionally, the chronic stress from burnout can result in sleep disruptions and unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as overeating or substance abuse.
Can chronic burnout affect an individual’s overall quality of life?
Chronic burnout can potentially affect an individual’s overall quality of life significantly. The continuous experience of emotional and physical exhaustion can impair a person’s ability to enjoy everyday activities, maintain satisfying relationships, and perform well at work. Furthermore, the long-term health issues associated with burnout might exacerbate individuals’ challenges in achieving a fulfilling, balanced life.