Burnout

Understanding Burnout

Burnout is a state of emotional, cognitive, and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, overwhelm, and unmet support needs. It affects focus, motivation, energy, and daily functioning, often leading to shutdown, irritability, reduced capacity, and difficulty managing tasks or responsibilities.

Neurodivergent individuals, including ADHDers, Autistics, and AuDHDers, are more prone to burnout due to chronic masking, sensory overload, executive-function demands, and navigating environments not designed for our needs.

Burned forest landscape representing the emotional and physical exhaustion of neurodivergent burnout, including autistic and AuDHD burnout.

How Counselling Can Help with Burnout

Counselling can support you in:

  • Identifying burnout triggers and early warning signs

  • Managing sensory and cognitive overload

  • Strengthening emotional regulation and self-compassion

  • Rebalancing responsibilities and boundaries

  • Processing the emotional and physical impacts of prolonged stress

  • Reducing masking and supporting authentic living

“But then we get exhausted and we wonder if we can accomplish any of the things we hope for, without destroying ourselves in the process. We ask ourselves if it’s time to quit.”

— Emily Nagoski