Antaru had just graduated from engineering college in Nagpur. He was thrilled when he landed a job through campus placement in Bangalore, a bustling city known for its opportunities. Excited yet nervous, he packed his bags and moved to Bangalore, leaving behind the comfort of his family and familiar surroundings.

The initial days in Bangalore were overwhelming. The city's notorious traffic jams made his daily commute to work a stressful ordeal. His job, although exciting, demanded long hours and intense focus. Antaru found himself struggling to balance work and personal life. Living alone meant he had to take care of all household chores, which added to his fatigue.

Days turned into weeks, and Antaru started feeling increasingly exhausted. He felt isolated in the new city, far from his family and friends. Despite his hard work, he couldn’t shake off the constant tiredness and lack of motivation. He began snapping at colleagues and feeling frustrated over minor issues. His sleep patterns were disturbed, and he felt a growing sense of helplessness.

One evening, feeling particularly low, Antaru decided to call his family doctor in Nagpur, Dr. Sharma.

"Hello, Doctor. This is Antaru. I... I think I need your help. I've been feeling so drained, exhausted and feeling sleepy all the time. I'm not sure what's wrong with me," Antaru said, his voice tinged with worry.

Dr. Sharma listened everything carefully and then replied, "Antaru, it sounds like you might be experiencing burnout. It’s quite common, especially when adjusting to a new job and city. But don't worry, we can manage this. Let’s start with some simple changes to your routine."

Antaru was relieved to have someone understand what he was going through. "Burnout? I’ve heard of it, but I didn't realize it could affect me. What should I do, Doctor?"

"First," Dr. Sharma began, "make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Try to establish a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine. Secondly, incorporate some physical activity into your day. Even a short walk can help clear your mind and reduce stress."

Antaru nodded, taking mental notes. "Okay, I can try that. What else?"

"Stay connected with your loved ones. Regularly talking to friends and family can provide emotional support. Also, try to eat balanced meals. Avoid skipping meals or relying on junk food, as good nutrition is essential for maintaining energy levels."

"I’ll definitely try to do that," Antaru agreed. "Anything else I should be aware of?"

"Yes", Dr. Sharma continued, "set realistic goals at work and prioritize your tasks. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re overwhelmed. And finally, make time for activities you enjoy. Whether it’s reading, music, or a hobby, doing something you love can rejuvenate you."

"Thank you, Doctor," Antaru said, feeling a bit hopeful. "I'll start making these changes right away."

To anyone feeling overwhelmed or burned out like Antaru, remember that it’s crucial to prioritize your well-being. Burnout can stem from various sources, such as high workloads, lack of control over work, unclear job expectations, or even personal factors like perfectionism and lack of social support. It can affect anyone, from students and young professionals to seasoned employees, caregivers, and even stay-at-home parents.

Practical tips to avoid burnout and lead a happier life: