1
THE STRAIN
"Mental Bandwidth at 95%"
🧠 Brain Status:
Cognitive load maxed. Prefrontal cortex overworking. Cortisol elevated but manageable.
Warning Signs:
- Emails at odd hours
- Declining meeting contributions
- Forgetting small commitments
Productivity Loss:
10-15%
2
THE FLOODING
"Cortisol Takes Control"
🧠 Brain Status:
Amygdala hijacking. Chronic cortisol. Fight-flight activated daily.
Warning Signs:
- Visible frustration over minor issues
- Camera off in calls
- Sunday night anxiety
Productivity Loss:
30-40%
3
THE NUMBING
"Prefrontal Cortex Offline"
🧠 Brain Status:
Emotional numbing. Survival mode only. Neuroplasticity halted.
Warning Signs:
- "I don't care anymore"
- Crying before work
- Emergency medical leave
Productivity Loss:
60-70%
4
THE CRACK
"System Failure"
🧠 Brain Status:
Complete shutdown. Cortisol toxicity. Cognitive function -20 IQ points.
The Inevitable Result:
- Panic attacks
- Complete disassociation
- Sudden resignation (no backup plan)
Replacement Cost:
£42K-£126K