Feeling tired from work is a common experience. Long hours and demanding jobs can make it hard to manage work-life balance, leading to exhaustion and stress.
It’s important to understand the difference between feeling tired and experiencing burnout. Burnout is a work-related syndrome marked by emotional exhaustion, feeling detached, and a sense of reduced accomplishment.
This article offers actionable strategies for how to comfort someone who is tired from work and how to recognize the signs of burnout.
Recognizing the signs: Tiredness vs. Burnout
It’s important to figure out if your loved one is just tired from work or if they’re experiencing burnout.
Defining tiredness from work
Tiredness from work is a short-term state of low energy because of job demands. Rest and relaxation can usually bring someone back to their usual energy levels. Long hours, difficult tasks, and stressful projects can all lead to someone feeling tired from work.
Identifying burnout
Burnout is a syndrome that develops because of long-term workplace stress. The APA Dictionary of Psychology defines burnout as “a syndrome developing in response to chronically adverse working conditions.”
Here are the key symptoms of burnout:
- Emotional exhaustion: Feeling drained and unable to feel emotions.
- Depersonalization: Feeling disconnected from your job and seeing other people negatively.
- Lack of personal achievement: Feeling like you can’t perform at your best.
Immediate Comfort Strategies: Easing the Burden
Sometimes, the best thing you can do is help someone feel better right now.
Active Listening and Validation
Let them talk about how they feel, and don’t judge them. As licensed marriage and family therapist Shirin Peykar, LMFT, told us, “It’s important to have some sort of connection with the person. There has to be a safe space for the person to open up.”
Show them you understand what they’re going through. Acknowledge how hard their work is. Empathize with their exhaustion.
Practical Support and Assistance
Offer to take something off their plate. Instead of a vague “Can I help you with anything?”, ask “What can I do for you?” Peykar says that specific question makes a big difference because it leads to a specific answer.
That could mean cooking a meal, doing errands, or providing childcare.
Creating a Relaxing Environment
Suggest something relaxing and stress-reducing, such as applied relaxation techniques, a warm bath, music, or time spent outdoors.
Turn off the TV, dim the lights, and create a peaceful space.
Long-Term Support: Encouraging Self-Care and Work-Life Balance
Sometimes a person’s exhaustion is just part of the job, but sometimes it’s a sign of something bigger. Here’s how to help someone make changes that could improve their well-being, perhaps even using a 30-day journal challenge for mental health.
Promoting Self-Care Practices
Encourage them to exercise regularly, eat healthy foods, and get enough sleep. Remind them to make time for rest, relaxation, and hobbies. Help them find time to do the things that make them happy.
Fostering Work-Life Balance
Encourage them to set boundaries between work and personal life. It can be tough, but encourage them to limit work-related activities outside of work hours. Suggest they take breaks during the workday to recharge.
Open Communication and Emotional Support
Check in with them regularly and offer ongoing support. Asking, “How are you, really?” can lead to more open communication. Remind them of their strengths and accomplishments to boost their morale.
When to consider professional help
Sometimes, “tired from work” can mean more than just needing a good night’s sleep. Here are some signs that someone you care about might need professional help:
- Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, or worthlessness that just won’t go away
- Changes in sleep or appetite, losing interest in hobbies, or thoughts of harming themselves
If you see these signs, it’s time to suggest a therapist, counselor, or doctor. You could offer to help them find someone to talk to.
You could also check if their workplace offers an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or look for mental health services in your area. Primary care providers, mental health clinicians, and support lines are great places to start.
The most important thing is to be understanding and supportive. If they’re open to it, you could even attend therapy sessions with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you comfort someone with fatigue?
When comforting someone experiencing fatigue, start by acknowledging their feelings and validating their experience. Offer practical support like preparing a meal, running errands, or simply providing a quiet space for them to rest. Listen empathetically without judgment and avoid minimizing their tiredness. Sometimes, just being present and offering a calming presence is the most comforting thing you can do.
How do you motivate someone who is tired at work?
Motivating someone who is tired at work involves understanding the root cause of their fatigue. Encourage them to take short breaks, prioritize tasks, and delegate when possible. Remind them of their accomplishments and the value of their contributions. Offer assistance with challenging tasks and foster a supportive work environment where they feel comfortable expressing their needs and concerns.
How to cheer up someone who is tired?
Cheering up someone who is tired requires a gentle approach. Avoid overwhelming them with high-energy activities. Instead, offer simple pleasures like a favorite snack, a comforting movie, or a relaxing activity like listening to music or going for a short walk in nature. Share a funny story or offer a heartfelt compliment to boost their spirits. Remember that sometimes, simply acknowledging their tiredness and offering a moment of lightheartedness can make a big difference.
What to say to someone when they say they’re tired?
When someone tells you they’re tired, respond with empathy and understanding. Avoid offering unsolicited advice or dismissing their feelings. Instead, try phrases like: “That sounds really tough,” “I’m sorry you’re feeling so drained,” or “Is there anything I can do to help you feel a little better?” Acknowledge their experience and offer your support in a genuine and caring way.
Conclusion
Providing comfort and support to someone who’s tired from work is really important. Sometimes, even small acts of kindness and understanding can make a big difference.
Keep the lines of communication open, and encourage them to practice self-care. If they’re still struggling, suggest seeking professional help.
It’s important to know the difference between everyday tiredness and true burnout, and to take action as needed.