Burnout: More Than Just Stress
Burnout what is it?
Burnout isn't merely fatigue. It's profound emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion resulting from prolonged, unresolved stress. First described by psychologist Herbert Freudenberger in 1974, burnout is now recognised by the World Health Organisation as a professional phenomenon directly impacting health.
The most insidious aspect? Many don't realise when they've crossed the line. They continue working, socialising, doing what's "expected"—until they suddenly hit an emotional wall.
Research Insight: Maslach & Leiter (2016) confirm that emotional exhaustion is a key predictor of professional burnout.
The most insidious aspect? Many don't realise when they've crossed the line. They continue working, socialising, doing what's "expected"—until they suddenly hit an emotional wall.
Research Insight: Maslach & Leiter (2016) confirm that emotional exhaustion is a key predictor of professional burnout.
Burnout Symptoms:
How to Know You’re in the Danger Zone
How to Know You’re in the Danger Zone
- Emotional:
- A sense of emptiness, apathy, or detachment
- Irritability, outbursts of anger or tears for no clear reason
- Cynicism toward work, clients, or even loved ones
- Mental:
- Poor concentration, forgetfulness
- “Brain fog” or mental haze
- Loss of meaning in work and life
- Physical:
- Persistent fatigue, even in the morning
- Headaches, sleep issues, digestive problems
- Body tension, rapid heartbeat
Who’s Most at Risk?
- Professionals with high responsibility
- Helpers and empaths: people who put others’ needs before their own
- Perfectionists and workaholics
- Immigrants and career changers
3 Burnout Scenarios
Work & Meaning
How it shows up:
Loss of interest — “I don’t know why I’m doing this anymore”
What helps:
Reconnecting with your values, career coaching
Loss of interest — “I don’t know why I’m doing this anymore”
What helps:
Reconnecting with your values, career coaching
Relationships
How it shows up:
Emotional distance, irritation, loneliness
What helps:
Boundary work, communication tools, emotional therapy
Emotional distance, irritation, loneliness
What helps:
Boundary work, communication tools, emotional therapy
Body & Energy
How it shows up:
Chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances
What helps:
Physical recovery, breathing practices, somatic therapy
Chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances
What helps:
Physical recovery, breathing practices, somatic therapy
What Can You Do?
A Holistic Approach:
A Holistic Approach:
Reconnect with Your Body
Engage in regular deep breathing and gentle movements like yoga, dance, or Pilates. Studies show that 20 minutes of mindful breathing can reduce cortisol levels and anxiety.
Set Boundaries
Learn to say "no," limit work during off-hours, and dedicate 1–2 hours daily without screens or tasks.
Rediscover 'Micro-Joys'
Spend 10 minutes daily on activities that bring joy—tea, reading, walking, or silence—not for productivity, but for meaning.
Seek Support Without Shame
Talk to a psychologist, coach, or someone who listens without judgment.Stanford University research (2021) indicates that even 15 minutes with an empathetic listener can reduce social isolation and emotional exhaustion.
Want to Explore Deeper?
We’ve created 3-week recovery programs at the intersection of psychology, coaching, and bodywork.
These aren’t “motivation marathons.”
They’re research-informed, personalised tracks designed to help you:
- Regain energy
- Reconnect with yourself
- Reorient your life path