Stress and burnout
Working together on how long term stress and burnout affect your body, mood and relationships.
What is it?
Stress is a natural response to demanding situations, and in short bursts it can help us act. But when it continues for a long time, because of workload, caring responsibilities, financial worries or relationship problems, the body and mind have no chance to recover.
Burnout is mostly linked to long term, unmanaged work stress. People feel emotionally drained, may become distant or indifferent towards their work, and feel they are not as effective as before. Burnout is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign that limits have been pushed for too long.
Common signs
- Constant tiredness that rest does not fix
- Low motivation, distance or indifference towards work or responsibilities
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- Irritability, impatience or emotional sensitivity
- Physical signs such as headaches, muscle tension or digestive problems
- Disrupted sleep and no time left for yourself
These signs alone do not mean a diagnosis; an assessment takes place in an in person or online session.
How can therapy help?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help you notice the thought and behaviour cycles that increase stress, and build practical steps such as setting boundaries, prioritising and making room for rest. Small, realistic changes can make a difference in daily life over time.
Psychodynamic (psychoanalytically informed) therapy makes room to understand why you take on so much, why saying no feels hard, or why your sense of worth is tied to achievement. This awareness can support a kinder relationship with yourself, which helps prevent burnout from returning.
Approaches I use in this area
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
A structured approach that looks at the link between thoughts, feelings and behaviour and works on changing unhelpful cycles.
Read more02Psychodynamic (psychoanalytically informed) therapy
An approach that explores how past experiences, relationship patterns and feelings outside our awareness shape the present.
Read moreWhen is extra support needed?
Long term stress can sometimes come with depression or anxiety disorders. If you have had low mood or hopelessness for weeks, serious sleep problems, or you cannot manage daily tasks, it is important to see a psychiatrist and, if needed, to assess whether medication may help. A check up with a doctor for physical symptoms can also be useful. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, call 112.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between stress and burnout?
Stress is usually about feeling overloaded and under pressure, while the person keeps trying. In burnout, people feel emotionally drained, and lack of motivation and distance come to the front. The two often go together.
Can I deal with burnout without quitting my job?
Many people work on burnout while staying in their job. In therapy we talk about your boundaries, priorities and the conditions that might change. We look for ways that suit you, without rushing into big decisions.
How soon will I feel better?
This cannot be predicted, because everyone's situation is different. We review the process together regularly and look at what is helping.
Every process is personal. Therapy does not guarantee a specific outcome, but it offers a safe space for change.
Related areas of work
- Grief and lossSessions that accompany you through grief after losing someone close, a separation or a major life change.
- Sleep problemsPsychological support when falling asleep, staying asleep or waking up rested feels hard.
- Eating problemsSupport when your relationship with food, body or weight becomes difficult, working alongside other professionals when needed.
Whenever you feel ready, I am here
Get in touch with any questions or to book a session. You will usually hear back on the same day.