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There are three phases in the evolution of a burnout
:
Alarm Phase : When stress persists for a certain time, it causes the appearance of characteristic reactions. These reactions are completely normal and only indicate the presence of stressful elements.
Resistance Phase : The stressful elements are unrelenting. The first physical signs which characterize the Alarm phase have gradually disappeared, the body adapts to the situation and the person’s resistance is increased to a level higher than normal.
The rupture occurs following a continuous exposure to the stressful elements. The characteristic alarm reactions reappear, but they are now irreversible without appropriate intervention. The defence mechanisms are overloaded : the person is now non-functional, incapable of thinking clearly, always feels overwhelmed and therefore, is constantly worried.
The following table illustrates the three phases of burnout and its physical and psychological manifestations.
Tableau Evolution of a burnout
Our memory stores our experiences, life story, knowledge and values. This impressive matter appears through our emotions and our behaviour and constitutes the imprint of our personality. There are two categories of memory: short term and long term.
Recent events are in the short term memory and act as triggers for burnout. Experience has shown however that a burnout cannot be permanently reversed if only these triggers are considered. It is also necessary to address the long term memory.
Copyright Psycho Physio International Inc. 2003-2008