27/09/2025
In today’s fast paced lifestyle, burnout is becoming increasingly common. Unfortunately, most of the warning signs go unnoticed, and this makes early intervention or lifestyle changes difficult to implement.
Burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process that builds up over time, often when the demands on you outweigh the resources you have to cope. By recognising the signs early, you can take steps to protect your wellbeing and regain balance.
Understanding burnout and knowing the early warning signs is a great way to stay on top of our mental health. If you struggle to switch off from work, distance yourself from unhealthy relationships, or prioritise your own wellbeing when it’s needed, then perhaps this is the sign you’ve been waiting for.
As I always tell my clients, awareness becomes our intervention.
💡 What Is Burnout?
Burnout is more than just feeling tired after a busy week. It’s a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by long-term stress, especially in work or caregiving roles, and relationships that demand our attention and consumes our thoughts and actions, even when we’re alone.
🔎 Early Signs To Watch Out For
You might notice:
• Feeling drained even after rest or sleep
• Emotional exhaustion (becoming easily irritated or frustrated)
• Losing enthusiasm for work or daily activities
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions
• Sleep problems (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep)
• Physical tension (headaches, stomach issues, muscle aches)
• Procrastination (low motivation, scrolling social media, isolation)
📈 The Stages of Burnout
1. Honeymoon Phase
• You feel motivated and committed, often pushing yourself hard.
• Stress is present, but energy and optimism carry you forward.
2. Onset of Stress
• Tiredness creeps in.
• Sleep, mood, or productivity may start slipping.
3. Chronic Stress
• Fatigue and overwhelm become more frequent.
• You may withdraw from friends or hobbies.
• Work feels harder to enjoy.
4. Burnout
• Exhaustion feels constant.
• Feelings of helplessness, detachment, or cynicism appear.
• Health problems may worsen.
5. Habitual Burnout
• Burnout becomes your “new normal.”
• Anxiety, low mood, or ongoing physical issues may require professional support.
💬 A Person-Centred Perspective
Your experience of burnout will be unique to you. Some people may feel it mainly in their body (tension, illness), others in their emotions (irritability, sadness), and others in their motivation (withdrawal, procrastination). Wherever you find yourself, your feelings ARE valid and recovery is possible with the right support.
🌿 What Helps?
• Pause & reflect: Notice your energy levels and stress triggers.
• Self-care as non-negotiable: Prioritise sleep, movement, and nutrition.
• Set boundaries: It’s okay to say no or delegate.
• Seek connection: Talk with friends, family, or colleagues.
✨ Remember: Burnout is a signal, not a weakness. Listening to your needs is the first step toward healing.
❤️🩹 Reaching Out For Support:
If any of this resonates with you or you’re concerned that you or someone you know is suffering from burnout, then finding the right support is important. A therapist or a counsellor is a great option if burnout feels overwhelming, or seeking help from your GP.
