Therapy for Burnout
What is Burnout?
Burnout is a state of prolonged stress that results in emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced effectiveness. It often develops gradually, as responsibilities pile up and self-care slips away.
According to The World Health Organization (WHO), burnout is now officially recognized as an “occupational phenomenon” resulting from chronic workplace stress that hasn’t been effectively managed.
In Canada, a 2023 Mental Health Research Canada survey found that more than one-third (35%) of working Canadians reported symptoms consistent with burnout, with younger adults and women reporting the highest rates.
What are the Symptoms of Burnout?
Burnout can look different for everyone, but common signs include:
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Constant exhaustion or feeling emotionally “drained”
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Difficulty concentrating or feeling detached from your work or relationships
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Irritability, frustration, or emotional numbness
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Feeling ineffective or questioning your competence
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Sleep problems or headaches
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Withdrawing from responsibilities or people
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Losing motivation, creativity, or sense of purpose
If you find yourself saying, “I just can’t keep doing this,” it might be time to slow down and get support.
How Does Burnout Develop?
Burnout often builds up slowly, caused by chronic stress without enough recovery. Common contributors include:
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High workloads or unrealistic expectations
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Lack of control or recognition at work
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Perfectionism or difficulty setting boundaries
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Caregiving stress or emotional labour
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Ongoing exposure to emotionally demanding environments
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Neglecting rest, play, or self-care
Over time, the body and mind enter a state of depletion. Therapy can help you understand what led to burnout, identify your limits, and start restoring balance emotionally, mentally, and physically.
When Should I Seek Therapy For Burnout?
It may be time to reach out for therapy if you notice:
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Persistent exhaustion despite rest
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Feeling disconnected from work, relationships, or purpose
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Frequent irritability, frustration, or hopelessness
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Difficulty relaxing or feeling guilty when you rest
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Changes in sleep, appetite, or concentration
Therapy can help you understand the roots of burnout, reconnect with what matters most, and develop strategies to protect your energy and well-being long term.
How Can Reclaim Psychotherapy Help?
At Reclaim Psychotherapy, we help you move beyond survival mode and rebuild a sense of calm, meaning, and self-trust. Our therapists use evidence-based approaches to help you recover from burnout and prevent relapse, including:
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Helps you reconnect with your values and make choices aligned with what truly matters — not just what’s expected.
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Identifies unhelpful thought patterns (like perfectionism or self-criticism) that fuel burnout and replaces them with balanced perspectives.
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Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBT): Teaches you to slow down, notice your stress responses, and cultivate a sense of calm.
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Motivational Interviewing (MI): Helps you navigate ambivalence and build motivation to create sustainable life changes.
Our goal is to help you reclaim your energy, purpose, and emotional balance — one step at a time.
Ready to take the first step? Get in touch today!
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