Common signs and symptoms

Burnout is a state of deep physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that comes from being under too much stress for too long. It’s often tied to work, but it can also come from caregiving, school, or long-term relationship stress. It builds up gradually, and over time, you might start to feel overwhelmed, drained, and like you just can’t keep going.

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It’s not just being tired. Burnout can make you feel emotionally flat, unmotivated, or disconnected—like you’ve lost your energy, your focus, and even your sense of purpose. You might feel irritated, hopeless, or stuck, and even small tasks can feel like too much. Things you used to care about may not bring you joy anymore.

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Part of what contributes to burnout is how someone handles stress. If you don’t have healthy coping strategies—like setting boundaries, taking breaks, asking for support, or even knowing how to manage stress in the first place—it’s easier to get overwhelmed. Some people were never taught how to recognize when they're under too much pressure, or how to respond in a way that protects their mental and emotional energy. That lack of tools can make burnout happen more quickly and feel more intense.

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That said, even people who are really good at managing stress can still burn out if they’re in a situation where the demands just don’t let up. Burnout isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign that something in your environment, or your way of coping with it, needs to change.

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Treatment for burnout involves counseling. At Willow Tree, our counselors can help you better understand your symptoms, learn coping skills to manage your anxiety and offer support in the process.

Please note:

Burnout isn’t covered by most health insurance—because it’s not an official diagnosis.

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Even though burnout can seriously affect your mental and physical health, traditional insurance plans often don’t recognize it.

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That means many people don’t get the support they need when they’re overwhelmed and exhausted.

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Services for burnout are available as a self-pay option, giving you access to the care you deserve. Please let us know if you have any questions related to this.