Fatigue and work burnout

  • Published
  • By Lisa Gonzales
  • Air Force Safety Center
Feeling run down and tired? Is fatigue impacting job performance? According to the National Safety Council more than 70 million Americans suffer from a sleep disorder, chronic sleep-deprivation can cause obesity, cardiovascular disease and other illnesses. The military environment is complex and contains challenges like increased mission tempo, long-range missions and personnel shortages that exacerbate sleep quality. Remember to take time off for self-care, include exercise, proper nutrition and getting at least seven to nine hours of sleep each night to help reduce those risks. Had a long day and just getting on the road? Driving fatigued can be just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. Take breaks every 2 hours or 100 miles, if you find yourself dozing at the wheel, find a rest stop or hotel.