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Burnout

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a comprehensive resource. Content may change and be updated regularly; therefore, some information may become outdated over time. This website does not offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should not be used as a substitute for professional evaluation and care by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of a licensed prescribing clinician, such as a nurse practitioner, psychiatrist, or other qualified medical professional, with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. In case of a medical or psychiatric emergency, contact your healthcare provider or emergency services immediately.

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What Is Burnout?

Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress. It often shows up in high achievers—those who feel like they have to "do it all." According to the World Health Organization (2019), burnout is now classified as an occupational phenomenon, not a medical condition, though its symptoms can severely impact mental and physical health.

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People experiencing burnout may feel drained, cynical, and detached from their responsibilities, especially in demanding roles. Over time, burnout can contribute to mental fatigue, emotional exhaustion, and even depression.

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Types of Burnout

While burnout is commonly linked to work, it can manifest in other areas of life. The main types include:

  • Occupational Burnout: The most recognized form, tied to job stress and relentless professional demands.

  • Parental Burnout: Exhaustion stemming from the pressure of parenting, especially in households with limited support.

  • Caregiver Burnout: Common among those caring for chronically ill loved ones, often linked with compassion fatigue.

  • Academic Burnout: Affects students pushing themselves to maintain perfection in high-pressure environments.

 

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​​​​​​Symptoms of Burnout

Burnout doesn't appear overnight—it creeps in. Some common burn out symptoms include:

  • Chronic fatigue and adrenal fatigue

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Irritability or detachment

  • Brain fog and lack of mental clarity

  • Decreased productivity

  • Loss of interest or pleasure

  • Feeling ineffective despite overworking

If you're experiencing more than a couple of these, you're not lazy—you might be burnt out.

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Causes of Burnout

Genetic Factors

Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to mood dysregulation, which increases vulnerability to burnout (Clarke et al., 2020).

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Brain Chemistry and Structure

Chronic stress affects the HPA axis, leading to dysregulation in cortisol levels, which contributes to chronic stress and emotional depletion (McEwen, 2017).

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Environmental Factors

Workload, toxic workplaces, work-life imbalance, and societal pressure to "hustle harder" all play major roles.

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If you're a perfectionist, people-pleaser, or someone with high-functioning anxiety, you're more likely to fall into the burnout trap.

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How is Burnout Diagnosed?

There’s no single lab test for burnout, but it can be diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation that includes:

  • Clinical interviews

  • Symptom tracking

  • Assessment of lifestyle and stressors

  • Ruling out other conditions (like depression, stress-related illness, or autoimmune disorders)

In my clinic, I take a holistic and integrative approach. That includes investigating everything from hormone imbalances to underlying trauma.

 

How is Burnout Treated?

You don’t need to “power through” burnout. You need to reset—biochemically, mentally, and emotionally.

Here’s how we approach it:

 

Blood Tests

May include:

  • General Health and Metabolic Function

    • CBC, CMP​

  • Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health

    • Hemoglobin A1c (HgA1c)

  • Nutritional and Micronutrient Status

    • Vitamin D, Vitamin B12 & Folic Acid Panel, Vitamin B6, Iron panel with ferritin

  • Inflammatory markers

    • CRP, ESR​, salivary cortisol testing

  • Thyroid Function and Autoimmunity

    • Thyroid Panel (TSH, FT3, FT4, Anti-Thyroid Antibodies)

​It is essential to rule out underlying medical conditions that could mimic or exacerbate psychiatric symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction, nutrient deficiencies, or metabolic imbalances. Identifying medical contributors ensures that symptoms are not misattributed solely to a psychiatric disorder, allowing for a more comprehensive and accurate diagnosis. Additionally, baseline and ongoing monitoring are crucial when prescribing medications, as many psychiatric treatments can impact metabolic health, liver and kidney function, thyroid levels, and cardiovascular risk factors. Regular lab assessments help optimize treatment safety, prevent adverse effects, and support overall physical and mental well-being.

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Genova Diagnostic Testing

Genova diagnostic testing offers comprehensive functional medicine assessments to uncover underlying contributors to mental health symptoms, including gut health imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, hormone dysregulation, and systemic inflammation. These advanced panels analyze biomarkers related to digestion, metabolism, neurotransmitter function, and oxidative stress, offering a deeper understanding of how physiological factors influence mental well-being. One especially valuable tool is Genova’s Salivary Cortisol Test, which evaluates daily cortisol patterns to assess HPA axis function and identify signs of adrenal fatigue—a common feature in burnout and chronic stress. This personalized, systems-based approach allows for more targeted and effective interventions, moving beyond symptom management to address root causes. While Genova testing provides powerful insights, results are always interpreted alongside clinical history, physical symptoms, and other diagnostic data to ensure a truly holistic evaluation.

 

Medication Management

Medications may be helpful, especially when burnout overlaps with anxiety, depression, or insomnia. I personalize regimens to restore mental clarity and stabilize mood.

 

Supplements + Nutraceuticals

May include:

  • Adaptogens

    • Phosphatidylserine​

    • Ashwagandha

    • Rhodiola​

    • Ginseng

 

Before starting any supplement, consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended. 

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Therapy

May include:

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

    • Helps individuals develop psychological flexibility, learn to accept their experiences, and commit to value-driven actions—critical when recovering from burnout in women and overachievers.

  • Mindfulness-Based Interventions

    • Enhance present-moment awareness, reduce reactivity to stress, and promote emotional regulation. Mindfulness practices are especially helpful in healing

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Targets unhelpful thinking patterns, especially perfectionism and self-criticism, which fuel overachiever stress.

  • Motivational Interviewing (MI)

    • Supports change by resolving ambivalence, perfect for those who intellectually know they need change but feel stuck.

 

Lifestyle + Diet Modifications

May include:

  • Structured Daily Routine

    • Provides predictability and balance, helping to reduce overwhelm and support executive function.

  • Consistent Sleep Schedule

    • Restores circadian rhythm and supports adrenal recovery, crucial for healing from chronic stress and mental fatigue.

  • Protein & Healthy Fats at Breakfast

    • Stabilizes blood sugar and fuels neurotransmitter production, supporting mental clarity and sustained energy.

  • Minimize Caffeine, Sugar, and Processed Foods

    • Reduces cortisol spikes, inflammation, and energy crashes that can worsen burn out symptoms.

  • Regular Exercise

    • Boosts endorphins and supports nervous system regulation, improving mood, focus, and sleep quality.

  • Mindfulness and Meditation

    • Lowers perceived stress, promotes emotional resilience, and improves stress reactivity—key in managing burnout long-term.

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Resources

  1. The American Institute of Stress – Burnout and Chronic Stress

    • Link: The American Institute of Stress

      • The American Institute of Stress offers research-backed articles, self-assessments, and practical tools on chronic stress and burnout. Their content explores physical, emotional, and occupational dimensions of burnout, making it a helpful resource for clients seeking to understand the physiological and psychological toll of high stress—and how to recover.

  2. Burnout Global – Legacy and Education Inspired by Dr. Herbert Freudenberger

    • Link: Burnout Global - Burnout, Herbert Freudenberger

      • Part of the CDC, NIOSH offers practical tools and research on occupational stress and burnout, including prevention strategies and mental health resources for workers. It’s especially useful for those experiencing burnout related to workplace conditions or chronic job stress.

 

References

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