Burnout is a common reason for seeking therapy and often comes on unexpectedly: we believe for so long that we can carry on running without stopping for a breather. The amount that we are able to do becomes addictive and ever increasing… until the last fumes evaporate, the balloon bursts, our invincibility is gone – and suddenly we cannot move at all. Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Your tank is truly empty!
Most commonly, burnout is associated with work-related stress but it can be the unrelenting demands of anything – caring for relatives or friends, looking after children, saying yes to everything and no to nothing – the curse of the people pleaser, perfectionist or simply ambition gone extreme. High workloads, lack of support and unrealistic expectations, all contribute. Regardless of its source, burnout can have serious consequences for both mental and physical health.
Burnout can show itself in different ways. Some people experience chronic fatigue, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating, while others may feel increasingly cynical, irritable or disconnected from their work or the people around them. It can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, further causing a vicious downward spiral as the individual feels more and more out of control.
My candle burns at both ends
It will not last the night.
But ah my foes and oh my friends
– it gives a lovely light!
-‘First Fig’, by Edna St. Vincent Millay
How can therapy help?
Recognizing burnout is the first step towards recovery, with therapy providing a safe space for individuals to explore their feelings, identify the sources of stress and develop effective coping strategies. Here’s how it works:
1. Understanding the Causes: A therapist helps individuals pinpoint the underlying factors contributing to their burnout, whether it’s work-related stress, personal life issues, or a combination. They will help you to understand what made you susceptible to burnout and what has kept you pushing through for so long. Understanding these triggers is crucial for managing them effectively.
2. Developing Coping Strategies: Therapists guide individuals in developing coping strategies tailored to their unique situations. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation and stress management practices can help reduce the intensity of burnout symptoms and improve overall resilience.
3. Improving Self-Care Practices: Therapy encourages self-protectiveness, which is often neglected during burnout. A therapist can assist in setting boundaries, teaching assertiveness skills, prioritising rest, and incorporating activities that restore mental health, such as exercise and hobbies.
4. Preventing Relapse: Therapy equips individuals with tools to manage stress more effectively, preventing relapse. This helps prevent future episodes of burnout, enabling individuals to maintain a healthier work-life balance and improve their mental health.
In summary, therapy offers a structured and supportive way to address the root causes of burnout and helps develop healthier coping mechanisms, so you can regain a sense of control and peace.
If you or someone you know is struggling with burnout, seeking professional help is a valuable step towards recovery and long-term well-being.