“I am checked out”,
“I can’t do this anymore”,
“I’m ready to quit, what’s the point”,
“I’ve got one foot out the door”,
“This isn’t worth my time”.

Whether it’s a job, a relationship, or school, these are common phrases that can be indicators of burnout. Burnout is physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion. It builds overtime with mounting stress that eventually becomes overwhelming to handle.

Some of us have been taught to “go-go-go” at all costs. All-nighters, working while sick, and people pleasing are some of the ways that we can overextend ourselves. Some of us have been shown the value of taking breaks and engaging in routine self-care. Unfortunately, so many of us were not given the tools needed to know when we’ve reached our limit.

When our focus is trying to survive to make ends meet, taking a break can sometimes feel like falling behind. When we have rent, bills, healthcare, and food at stake if we slow down and take a sick day- it’s not a choice.

We can experience burnout at school, in the workplace, as parents, and as caregivers. We might not be able to change schools, jobs, or step away from caring from those that depend on us.

When we experience burnout, we are so caught up in just making it through the day, getting things done. Just trying to get through the day can add up. This can lead to anxiety. Panic attacks. Feeling hopeless, unmotivated, and even depressed. We may isolate from others, feel exhausted, even numb. When this occurs, we can find it hard to stop and see the impact of those signs. The pressure to keep going can overshadow the burnout.

Not being able to address basic needs or interests can quiet a part of our identity. We can succumb to daily demands and feel empty. If it has reached this point, it doesn’t have to stay this way. In therapy, you can find a connection with another person who will listen to you and try to understand your experience. A therapist will introduce you to coping and relaxation techniques that can be limited to just a few minutes. A therapist can help you identify if there are areas where you can set boundaries. And therapy can be an invaluable experience in seeing how asking for help can transform your life.