What is Burnout?
Burnout is a term we hear more frequently in today’s world, especially as we juggle increasingly demanding jobs, personal responsibilities, and social pressures. However, burnout is more than just feeling stressed or tired, it’s a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress, which, if left unaddressed, can severely impact both your personal and professional life. It commonly stems from work-related stress but can also arise from other areas such as caring for family, managing a household, or dealing with personal crises. Burnout isn’t simply the result of working long hours, it occurs when you feel overwhelmed and powerless to make changes or take control of your situation.
Key Characteristics of Burnout
- Emotional exhaustion: Feeling drained and unable to cope, emotionally and physically.
- Cynicism or detachment: Becoming cynical, pessimistic, or feeling disconnected from your work or responsibilities.
- Reduced performance: Struggling to concentrate, feeling less productive, and finding it difficult to complete tasks that were once manageable.
Symptoms of Burnout
Recognising the signs of burnout is crucial for addressing the issue before it becomes overwhelming. Burnout can manifest in various ways, affecting your physical, emotional, and mental health. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to take them seriously. Burnout can worsen over time if left untreated, impacting your relationships, productivity, and overall health.
Physical Symptoms: chronic fatigue, frequent headaches, sleep pattern changes, weakened immune system.
Emotional Symptoms: detachment, irritability, lack of motivation, hopelessness.
Mental and Cognitive Symptoms: difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, negative thoughts.
What to Do If You’ve Burned Out
- Acknowledge the Problem
- Seek Professional Support – including Counselling and CBT from Horizon Counselling
- Prioritise Self-Care and set boundaries
- Reconnect with Your Values
- Allow for gradual recovery
Find out more on burnout by visiting Mental Health UK.
Client Testimonial
“I would like to thank Alan and his team for their continual support with helping both myself and my son. Even though my son is now in New Zealand, Alan was more than happy to arrange a meeting around the time difference to make sure he reached out to my son. Alan is a complete rock to us both. When we have a blip in our lives we know we can reach out for support and he will get us back on track with our positive future.” – Tony
Q&A
Q: Is burnout the same as stress?
A: No, burnout is more severe and long-lasting than regular stress, often leading to emotional and physical exhaustion.
Q: Can burnout go away on its own?
A: Without intervention, burnout can persist and worsen. Professional support can greatly accelerate recovery.
Take Action with Horizon Counselling Services
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and believe you may be experiencing burnout, Horizon Counselling Services is here to support you. We offer compassionate, professional guidance tailored to your individual needs. Our therapists specialise in helping clients recover from burnout, manage stress, and build healthier, more balanced lives. Book your burnout counselling in Plymouth appointment.
About the Author
Alan Stokes is the founder of Horizon Counselling Services and a highly experienced counsellor dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate emotional challenges. With a warm, client-focused approach, Alan supports people facing anxiety, burnout, and relationship difficulties with practical tools and compassionate care.