Stress or Burnout? How to Know When It’s Time to Pause and Reset
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STRESS or BURNOUT? Identifying and Regaining What Truly Matters
Workload exists at every stage of life — from job responsibilities to household duties. It’s an unavoidable part of daily living. But sometimes, what starts as a manageable routine slowly turns into overwhelming exhaustion. This state is known as burnout.
Burnout isn’t just feeling tired. It’s your body and mind sending an urgent signal: pause, reset, and prioritise yourself.
How does burnout show up?
Burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It builds gradually through prolonged stress and emotional pressure. At first, the signs may be subtle — but if ignored, they can become serious.
Burnout generally appears in three main forms:
- Inability (struggling to cope or perform)
- Negativity (cynicism, frustration, detachment)
- Exhaustion (physical and emotional depletion)
Common symptoms include:
- Constant fatigue and low energy
- Poor sleep or insomnia
- Lack of focus and motivation
- Digestive or bowel issues
- Chronic body aches
- Feeling numb, disconnected, or emotionally drained
- Self-doubt and loss of confidence
- Feeling alienated or disengaged from work or life
In simple terms, burnout feels like being empty, not just busy.
Stress vs Burnout: What’s the difference?
Stress makes you feel overwhelmed — like you have too much on your plate.
Burnout makes you feel detached and hopeless — like you no longer care about the plate at all.
Stress says: “I have too much to do.”
Burnout says: “I don’t see the point anymore.”
If symptoms persist, it’s always wise to seek professional support. Early awareness prevents deeper emotional and physical consequences.
How to recover from burnout
The good news? Burnout is reversible. Recovery starts with small but powerful changes.
1. Stop negotiating with your health
Learn to say no. Remove unnecessary tasks and set boundaries around your time and energy.
2. Manage screen time
Reduce late-night scrolling. Your brain needs rest as much as your body does.
3. Nourish your body
A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports healing, energy, and mental clarity.
4. Make time for you
Exercise, meditation, hobbies, music, dance — anything that helps you reconnect with joy.
5. Seek counselling
A therapist or counsellor can help identify root causes and guide your recovery journey.
Final thoughts
Your life is your most valuable asset. It should never be sacrificed to meet external expectations. You are not defined by your productivity, your job title, or how much you give to others.
You deserve rest.
You deserve balance.
You deserve a life that feels meaningful — not just busy.
There is always a way back to yourself.
Dr Rubbina Shaikh
Ayurvedic Consultant
Health Expert & Lifestyle Advisor
Legal Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalised guidance.