Burnout & Chronic Stress
When functioning well starts to become unsustainable
Burnout is not simply being tired.
For many people, burnout develops gradually while they continue working, caring for others and meeting their responsibilities.
You may still be functioning on the outside while internally feeling exhausted, disconnected, overwhelmed or unable to recover.
Burnout can involve:
Persistent physical or emotional exhaustion
Feeling overwhelmed by everyday demands
Difficulty recovering after work or responsibilities
Reduced motivation or enjoyment
Irritability and emotional sensitivity
Difficulty concentrating
Feeling disconnected or “numb”
Increasing reliance on productivity to feel okay
Perfectionism and high self-expectations
Feeling guilty when resting
Psychological therapy can help you understand the patterns contributing to ongoing stress and explore what needs to change.
This may include examining boundaries, expectations, perfectionism, people-pleasing, work patterns, relationships, emotional regulation and the ways you respond to pressure.
The goal is not simply to help you return to the level of functioning that led to burnout.
It is to develop a more sustainable way of living and responding to the demands of your life.
Understanding burnout
When burnout is connected to anxiety
Burnout and anxiety can reinforce each other.
You may push yourself because you are anxious about falling behind, then become exhausted from maintaining that level of effort. When you slow down, anxiety may increase, creating pressure to start pushing again.
Therapy can help interrupt this cycle.
Telehealth across NSW
Bellingen Psychology provides secure telehealth psychological appointments to adults across NSW.
If you're unsure whether psychological therapy is appropriate for what you're experiencing, you're welcome to make contact to discuss your needs.
If you're looking for a psychologist in NSW who offers flexible, high-quality online sessions,
you're welcome to reach out or book directly.
