As demands from work, parenting, caregiving, and everyday life continue to pile up, many people are finding themselves physically, emotionally, and mentally depleted.
Burnout isn’t just about being tired. It’s the chronic state of stress and overwhelm that leaves people feeling disconnected, unmotivated, and sometimes even hopeless. It doesn’t go away with a weekend off or a good night’s sleep.
Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or repeated stress. It’s commonly linked to workplace pressures, but it also arises from other roles — parenting, caring for others, or simply navigating high-pressure lifestyles with little time for rest and recovery.
Common signs and symptoms include constant fatigue, even after rest; difficulty concentrating or staying motivated; feeling emotionally numb or detached; increased irritability or anxiety; as well as physical symptoms like headaches, disrupted sleep, or low immunity.
The good news is, there are a range of practical steps that people in the South Burnett Community can take to help reduce burnout and rebuild resilience.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to extra demands when your plate is already full. Protecting your time and energy is essential for long-term wellbeing.
Talk About It: Burnout thrives in silence. Speak with a friend, partner, or counsellor about how you’re feeling. You’re not meant to carry everything alone.
Take Micro-Breaks: Pause throughout the day to breathe, stretch, or step outside. Even five minutes can help reset your nervous system.
Unplug Regularly: Digital overload can add to mental fatigue. Create screen-free moments—especially before bed—to allow your brain to unwind.
Prioritise Rest: Rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Schedule in downtime the same way you would a meeting or an appointment.
Unchecked burnout doesn’t just affect our performance or productivity at work – it impacts on relationships, our physical health, and emotional wellbeing.
Lead Counsellor, Rachel, said “I see so many clients arrive on the edge of exhaustion, unsure why they can’t cope like they used to. We get so focused on the busyness of life, we forget to live it.
“I tell my clients – burnout is not a weakness, it’s a warning sign that something needs to change.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with stress or burnout, Greenhill Counselling provides a safe, supportive space to talk through what’s happening, regain clarity, and create a personalised plan for recovery.
