In South Africa, our society, like many others, often celebrates overworking and pushing ourselves to our limits. Being constantly busy is frequently perceived as a symbol of success, and working extended hours is sometimes worn as a badge of honor. The influence of social media reinforces the notion that if we wish to attain financial security, we must be available for work around the clock.
South Africa, too, grapples with an extensive workweek, and many believe they must remain chained to their desks to stay afloat and progress in their careers. The advent of remote working has not alleviated this issue; instead, it often feels like we are perpetually tethered to our jobs, dealing with an unending barrage of emails.
However, there comes a point when we endanger our mental and physical well-being. Burnout is becoming increasingly prevalent across South Africa, and when people experience burnout, they often turn to alcohol or other substances to cope with the strain.
This can set in motion a perilous cycle that exacerbates the initial problem rather than solving it. Let’s delve into the intertwining relationship between burnout and addiction and why it’s a cause for concern in South Africa.
Understanding Burnout
While burnout is not officially classified as a medical condition, it is acknowledged in medical literature. According to the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), burnout is described as an “occupational phenomenon resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.”
Burnout typically encompasses three key dimensions:
- Exhaustion: Feeling utterly drained, physically and emotionally.
- Cynicism: Developing a detached and often cynical attitude toward one’s job.
- Reduced Professional Efficacy: A decline in productivity and effectiveness at work.
During periods of burnout, even minor tasks can appear overwhelmingly burdensome, and this emotional toll often spills into our personal lives. If we cannot express our feelings or share our struggles, we may experience feelings of inadequacy and isolation.
Who Is Vulnerable to Burnout?
Anyone subjected to significant stress is susceptible to burnout, although some individuals appear better equipped to withstand pressure than others. Nonetheless, specific indicators can increase the likelihood of burnout:
- Perfectionist tendencies.
- A misalignment between personal values and the practices of one’s employer.
- Dysfunctional workplace dynamics, including interactions with bullies, micromanagers, or narcissistic colleagues.
- Poor work-life balance.
- An overwhelming workload with insufficient resources or time to complete tasks adequately.
- Unrealistic expectations set by employers.
The Intersection of Burnout and Addiction
When individuals feel overwhelmed and distressed, they often seek solace in substances. For those grappling with exhaustion and an inability to focus, substances like cocaine or ADHD medication might appear enticing. If plagued by racing thoughts upon returning home, alcohol, heroin, or benzodiazepines may offer momentary relief, silencing the tumult within.
However, transitioning from self-medication to full-blown addiction is a constant risk when misusing substances—especially when attempting to evade the challenges in one’s life. As these substances only provide temporary relief, individuals can become increasingly reliant on them to function.
Substances also prompt a rebound effect, often resulting in symptoms opposite to the drug’s initial effects. For instance, cocaine acts as a stimulant, heightening alertness, but can leave users fatigued and lethargic afterward. Alcohol, opiates, and benzodiazepines induce a calming effect, but withdrawal ushers in anxiety and sleep disturbances.
This initiates a perilous cycle of tolerance, psychological dependence, and, in some instances, physical addiction. The symptoms of burnout may suddenly feel intolerable without the substance, exacerbating the problem on multiple fronts.
Seeking Help for Burnout-Related Addiction in South Africa
Burnout does not spontaneously improve, and it carries substantial risks even without the involvement of substances. When addiction enters the equation, these risks multiply, potentially leading to severe harm or loss of life.
The decision to disclose substance abuse to one’s employer is a personal one. However, addiction is classified as a medical condition, affording protection under employment law. Employers bear a legal responsibility for the well-being of their staff, and if an impaired employee poses risks to others, this becomes a critical concern.
For those grappling with addiction, attempts to quit independently may have proven challenging, possibly resulting in multiple failed efforts. Seeking professional assistance can significantly ease this transition. Knowledgeable professionals can provide guidance, healthy stress management techniques, and insights into the root causes of burnout—whether related to the workplace or one’s approach to the job.
Ultimately, your health is your most valuable asset, and it is one of the few things that money cannot buy. No job is worth jeopardizing your health or, potentially, your life. It is never too late to explore solutions that prioritize your well-being.