On the Edge of Burnout

I have been experience some work burnout lately. In a job that has built in stressors sometimes it’s the little things that are overwhelming. I have always worked with adults with the more difficult or severe conditions and that means more challenges. Our gang is getting older and more prone to the negative side of aging. More physical work, more paperwork, added responsibilities and less support all contribute to a difficult work situation. I would love to get on my soapbox and explain what downsizing and budget cuts can do to a group home. When it happens in a business there are all sorts of articles in the paper on the net explaining how it affects the typical worker, their family even the community. When it happens to a group home the effects are magnified because it’s not just the worker that is put through the stress but it affects the care and the quality of life of the people living in the group home. As a counsellor you have to pick up on the extra work and responsibilities so the people in your care do not suffer.
So here I am at home after a long day at work. Jangled nerves and an eye twitch after dealing with yet another outburst from one of the gang is more typical than not. Trying to unwind by listening to Podcasts and playing online games is the norm. A few days off is what is needed and I’m trying not to feel guilty of leaving my co-workers a staff down. I will be going up north with some of my family to close up the cottage and to take many pictures of the fall colours as a necessary medicine to combat work fatigue.