What it is

Burnout is a state of exhaustion that builds when stress goes on too long without enough recovery. It is most often linked to work, but caregiving, school and family pressures can lead there too.

Common signs

• Exhaustion that rest or a weekend doesn’t fix
• Feeling detached, numb, irritable or cynical
• Doubting your abilities or feeling ineffective
• Headaches, poor sleep or getting sick more often

Chronic stress and the body

Short bursts of stress are manageable. When stress stays switched on, the body has little chance to reset, which can affect sleep, mood, focus and health.

Recovery steps

• Notice what drains you and what restores you
• Reduce or share one demand where you can
• Protect sleep, movement and time with people who feel good to be around
• Set boundaries that protect your energy
• Be patient: recovery often takes weeks or months

Tools that may help

• Burnout Check-In (PDF) — a non-diagnostic look at energy, distance and effectiveness.
• Boundary Scripts (PDF) — ready-to-use words for work, family and relationships.
• Self-Compassion Reset (PDF) — a three-minute practice for when you’re being hard on yourself.

When to reach out

If exhaustion is affecting your health, relationships or ability to function, reach out. Your family doctor can also help rule out physical causes.

This page is for general education. It is not a diagnosis and not a substitute for care from a regulated health professional. Last reviewed: October 2026.