Empowering Ourselves Against Burnout: Prioritising Health and Well-being

Sydney Silver Connection Lunch Kicks Off September Walking Challenge

"In the face of health challenges, focus on the power that

lies within your grasp"

 As we lean into the journey of ageing well, it's crucial to recognise that one of the key elements within our control is our health and well-being. At Silver Sirens, we believe in equipping our community with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions that positively impact their lives. To kick off our focus on health & wellbeing, let's delve into the significance of burnout and its effects on women over 50, and explore strategies to promote a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

While focusing on our health and well-being is essential, it's equally important to acknowledge the potential obstacles that can hinder our progress. One such challenge is burnout—a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It can manifest as a sense of reduced accomplishment, loss of personal identity, and feelings of cynicism or detachment. As someone who experienced a mental breakdown after facing burnout in my fashion business, I understand the importance of addressing this issue and prioritising self-care.

Statistics reveal that burnout affects a significant number of women over 50, many of whom juggle multiple responsibilities, including careers, family, and personal interests. In fact, research suggests that over 40% of women in this age group report high levels of stress and burnout, which can contribute to long-term health problems such as depression, anxiety, heart disease, and sleep disorders.

Here are three common causes of burnout in women over 50:

Juggling Multiple Responsibilities: Many women over 50 manage various roles, such as being a parent or grandparent, caring for elderly parents, and maintaining a career. Balancing these responsibilities can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion, as well as a constant sense of being overwhelmed.

Unsustainable work pressures and expectations. In the modern workplace, many women face challenges such as increased workloads and responsibilities, long working hours and a lack of work-life balance, as well as age and gender discrimination, and pressure to perform at a high level consistently.

Societal and Familial Expectations: Societal pressure and family expectations can drive women over 50 to overextend themselves. They may feel obligated to be constantly available for others, neglecting their own needs in the process, which can eventually lead to burnout.

Coping with Age-Related Changes: Women in their 50s often face a range of physical, emotional, and social challenges, including menopause, the empty-nest syndrome, and changes in their careers or relationships. Adapting to these transitions can be taxing and contribute to feelings of burnout if not properly addressed.

Fortunately, there are steps we can take to combat burnout and reclaim our well-being. Here are five tips to help us return from the brink of burnout:

1. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporating mindfulness techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, can help reduce stress and improve our mental health.

2. Establish Boundaries: Setting realistic expectations and learning to say "no" when necessary can help prevent feelings of overwhelm and exhaustion.

3. Prioritise Self-Care: Engage in activities that bring joy, such as spending time with loved ones, indulging in hobbies, or practising self-compassion.

4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep can support our overall well-being and resilience in the face of stress.

5. Seek Support: Connecting with others, sharing experiences, and seeking professional help when needed can provide valuable resources and encouragement during challenging times.I've often felt the key to ageing well is to embrace the opportunities while addressing the challenges. By remaining aware of the potential challenges, such as burnout, and implementing strategies to combat its effects, we can empower ourselves to thrive and live fulfilling lives as women over 50.