Badmouth and Tawny tackle burnout among city letter carriers, particularly CCAs dealing with unpredictable schedules, excessive workloads, workplace stress, and limited opportunities for recovery. They explain the warning signs of burnout, examine the 12-stage burnout model, and share personal experiences with exhaustion, depression, ADHD, and the additional challenges faced by neurodivergent employees.
The discussion explores practical ways to recognize and manage burnout, including taking breaks, using leave, maintaining routines, setting realistic goals, finding support among coworkers, and recognizing when professional help may be necessary.
Cole joins the conversation to explain the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), discussing counseling benefits, accessing mental health resources, and the importance of seeking help before reaching a crisis.
The episode also features NALC Director of Retirees candidate Pam Donato discussing retiree advocacy, FERS cost-of-living adjustments, and the importance of supporting younger letter carriers.
Cites
Federal Legislation
- Hatch Act—Restrictions on political activities by federal employees
- H.R. 491—Equal COLA Act
- S. 624—Equal COLA Act
NALC References
- NALC Constitution—Duties of the Director of Retirees
- NALC Mutual Benefit Association (MBA)
- NALC CCA Retirement Savings Plan
Postal Forms and Programs
- PS Form 3996—Carrier-Auxiliary Control
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)—Counseling and mental health resources
Other Sources Referenced
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary—Definition of burnout
- Clinic Les Alpes—12 stages of burnout
- Mental Health America—Burnout and neurodivergence
- WebMD—Physical and psychological effects of burnout