Burnout is a state of chronic stress that leads to physical and emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and a sense of ineffectiveness. It is not a character flaw. It is a signal that your system needs support.
It can also manifest as compassion fatigue (in caring professions), caregiver burnout, or burnout resulting from unrelenting domestic or emotional labour.
It is what happens when a capable, committed, hardworking person gives more than their system can sustain for too long, without adequate rest, recovery, or recognition.
If you have been running on empty for so long you have forgotten what full feels like, this is for you.
Common signs and presentations
You may be experiencing burnout and fatigue if you recognise any of the following:
- Profound, persistent exhaustion not relieved by rest or sleep
- Emotional flatness: feeling numb, detached, or indifferent to things that used to matter
- Growing cynicism about work, colleagues, or the value of what you do
- Reduced performance, creativity, and the ability to think clearly
- Recurrent physical symptoms such as headaches, frequent illness, digestive issues, and muscle tension
- Dreading Monday from Friday evening
- Difficulty being present with family, friends, or yourself
- Loss of identity or sense of purpose outside of productivity
- Using numbing behaviours such as alcohol, overworking, or over-exercising to cope
What to expect in sessions
Recovery from burnout requires both understanding the root causes and rebuilding sustainable foundations. We explore your values, boundaries, and beliefs about rest and productivity, creating a personalised recovery roadmap; one that is realistic, compassionate, and designed for long-term sustainability