Burnout rarely arrives all at once. More often it creeps in through small changes that are easy to dismiss: shorter patience, poorer sleep, less enjoyment in things that used to matter.

Common early signs

You may notice ongoing tiredness that rest does not fix, difficulty concentrating, a growing sense of detachment from work or people, or feeling irritable over small things. Physical signs like headaches and tension are common too.

Questions worth asking

When did I last feel rested? What have I stopped doing that used to help me recover? Which demands are truly mine, and which have I absorbed from others? Honest answers can reveal where change is needed.

Small steps back

Recovery begins with small, protected moments of rest and clearer limits around work. If exhaustion has become your normal, support from a therapist can help you rebuild a more sustainable rhythm.