Burnout Isn’t Just Stress: What It Is and Why It Matters

Part 1 of the Burnout Blog Series

You’ve probably said it—or heard someone else say it:
"I’m just burnt out."

But what if burnout is more than being tired or overworked?

As a cognitive therapist, I see burnout not just as exhaustion, but as a state of emotional depletion, disconnection, and despair. It’s when your inner fire doesn’t just flicker—it goes out.

So, what is burnout really?

According to the WHO, burnout is a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that hasn’t been successfully managed. But in real life, it’s broader than the workplace. It affects parents, caregivers, creatives, entrepreneurs, students—anyone.

Burnout shows up in three key ways:

• Emotional exhaustion: You feel drained, and rest doesn’t fix it.

• Depersonalization: You become detached, cynical, or numb.

• Reduced personal accomplishment: You feel like you’re failing, even when you’re not.

Why does it matter?

Because burnout isn’t just a productivity issue—it’s a mental health crisis hiding in plain sight. Left unaddressed, it can lead to anxiety, depression, autoimmune flares, even suicidal thoughts.

Recognizing burnout is the first step toward recovery. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing parts of this series to help you:

• Recognize the signs early

• Understand how burnout connects with ADHD & neurodivergence

• Explore recovery paths that go beyond bubble baths