Mansha WellnessSigns of burnout at work and what you can do about it
Burnout is not simply being tired after a busy week. It builds slowly, and many young professionals notice it only when work starts to feel pointless or they dread opening their laptop.
Common signs
- Exhaustion that sleep or a weekend does not fix
- Feeling detached, cynical or irritable about work you once cared about
- Reduced focus and a sense that you are doing less despite working more
- Headaches, disturbed sleep or changes in appetite
- Withdrawing from friends, hobbies or things you enjoyed
What can help
- Protect real breaks. A proper lunch away from your screen and a fixed log-off time matter more than an occasional holiday.
- Name the main drain. Is it workload, unclear expectations, a difficult manager, or lack of control? Different causes need different responses.
- Say it out loud. Talk to someone you trust, and where it is safe, to your manager about workload or priorities.
- Keep one thing that is only yours. Music, a walk, a sport, anything unrelated to performance.
When to seek support
If these signs last for weeks, or you notice persistent low mood, hopelessness or anxiety, please consider speaking with a psychologist or doctor. Burnout can overlap with depression and anxiety, and professional support can help you work out which is which.
This article is for general information and does not replace professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.