Hormones and burnout are interconnected in several ways
Chronic stress, which is a key factor in the development of burnout, can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones in the body. The research of Ciobanu, A. M., Damian, A. C., & Neagu, C. (2021) summarizes the immunological and endocrine alterations found in burnout patients. It clearly highlights that the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, can be affected by chronic stress, which can be investigated by measuring hormonal responsiveness [corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, prolactin, thyroid hormones). Here are a few ways hormones and burnout are related.
2. Adrenaline and noradrenaline: These hormones are released in response to stress and play a role in the body's "fight-or-flight" response. In cases of chronic stress and burnout, the production of these hormones may become dysregulated, leading to symptoms like increased heart rate, heightened anxiety, and difficulty relaxing.
3. Dopamine and serotonin: These are neurotransmitters that play crucial roles in regulating mood, motivation, and pleasure. Chronic stress and burnout can disrupt the balance of these neurotransmitters, potentially leading to symptoms such as decreased motivation, low mood, and diminished pleasure in previously enjoyable activities.
4. Thyroid hormones: Chronic stress and burnout can affect the functioning of the thyroid gland, which produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and mood. Imbalances in thyroid hormones can contribute to symptoms commonly associated with burnout, such as fatigue, weight changes, and mood disturbances.
5. Reproductive hormones: Prolonged stress and burnout can disrupt the normal functioning of reproductive hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. This disruption can lead to menstrual irregularities, decreased libido, and other related symptoms.
It's important to note that the relationship between hormones and burnout is complex, and individual experiences may vary. The impact of hormones on burnout can be influenced by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and individual susceptibility to stress.
During a kinesiology session the nature of the stress reveals itself and the special methods of the Neuro-Energetic Kinesiology and SIPS Kinesiology may help to unlock the blockages of the hormonal system.
References
Ciobanu, A. M., Damian, A. C., & Neagu, C. (2021).Association between burnout and immunological and endocrine alterations. Romanianjournal of morphology and embryology = Revue roumaine de morphologie et
embryologie, 62(1), 13–18. https://doi.org/10.47162/RJME.62.1.02