What does burnout actually feel like?
Burnout is often mistaken for stress or simple exhaustion.
But burnout is more persistent, more layered, and often harder to recognize — especially for high-functioning adults who continue to “push through.”
So what does burnout actually feel like?
More than just being tired
Burnout isn’t only fatigue.
It can feel like:
Waking up depleted
Brain fog or poor concentration
Loss of motivation
Irritability or emotional numbness
Rest may help briefly, but the exhaustion quickly returns.
Everything feels heavier
Tasks that once felt manageable start to feel overwhelming.
You may notice:
Increased procrastination
Decision fatigue
A constant sense of falling behind
Reduced confidence
Even small demands can feel draining.
Emotional changes
Burnout often affects mood.
Common experiences include:
Feeling detached or flat
Heightened anxiety
Unexpected tearfulness
A sense of “what’s the point?”
Positive moments may feel muted or distant.
Strain on relationships
When emotional energy is depleted, relationships can feel harder to navigate.
You might feel:
Less patient
More withdrawn
Easily overstimulated
Guilty for not feeling present
Connection may begin to feel like effort rather than support.
High-functioning burnout
Many people with burnout continue meeting responsibilities.
Outwardly, things appear fine.
Internally, they feel exhausted, disconnected, and stretched thin.
This disconnect can make burnout difficult to acknowledge.
Burnout is not a personal failure
Burnout is typically the result of chronic stress and sustained pressure — not weakness.
It frequently affects capable, conscientious individuals balancing demanding roles.
Recovery involves more than rest
Healing burnout may include:
Understanding underlying stressors
Re-evaluating boundaries
Processing emotional exhaustion
Rebuilding energy and self-trust
Therapy can provide space for this work.
If this feels familiar
Burnout, stress, and emotional exhaustion are increasingly common — especially among adults balancing demanding roles and chronic pressure.
If you’re feeling persistently depleted, overwhelmed, or unlike yourself, therapy can help you regain balance and clarity.
Ali Margulius Counselling
Therapy for burnout, stress, and anxiety in Vancouver & online across BC