Are you on the verge? How to spot the signs of burnout.
Last week we talked about stress versus burnout. Given the number of emails I received in response to that article, it seems that this topic is resonating deeply right now. So this week, let’s take it one step further and look at whether you might be on the verge, and how to spot the signs of burn out before it happens (or address it properly if you are already there – more coming on that soon).
Burnout isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s a gradual process that builds up over time as a result of unprocessed and ongoing stress. The good news is that it’s preventable. If you can learn to spot the signs that you could be headed towards burnout, you can course correct before it’s too late.
Since burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion, it helps to look at the emotional, physical and mental indicators that we know exist. As well as these components, there are also behavioural changes which signal that you might be on the burnout train. If you think you’re on the verge of burnout, here are the signs and symptoms to look out for:
Do you recognise yourself in any of these symptoms? If you do, please don’t panic. The first step to recovery is awareness. For now, think about how you can de-stress and de-compress, even in the smallest ways. Here are some activities that are proven to help you complete the stress cycle (the core cause of burnout). See what you can integrate for the next 7 days and what impact it has on you.
If you're looking for more support, check out our free guide on burnout. Be sure to take care of yourself, and if you know someone who is stressed and potentially burnt out, please be a friend and forward this article to them. It could be just the support they need to get back on track.
About the author: Megan Dalla-Camina is an author, PhD researcher, Founder and CEO of the Women Rising Program and Male Allies Program. A globally recognised leadership expert, coach & mentor, she supports women and male allies to lead with confidence, clarity, and purpose in complex modern workplaces.
Read the full bio.
Frequently Asked Questions
+ What is burnout and how is it different from everyday stress?
Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged, unprocessed stress. While stress can motivate you in short bursts, burnout happens when that stress never fully switches off. It drains your energy, focus, and joy, making even small tasks feel overwhelming. Recognising the difference is the first step toward healing and prevention.
+ What are the early warning signs that I might be burning out?
Burnout rarely arrives overnight — it builds gradually. Early indicators include fatigue that rest doesn’t fix, irritability, anxiety, loss of motivation, brain fog, and a growing sense of detachment or cynicism. You may notice changes in sleep, appetite, or productivity. Awareness is empowering — these signs are your body’s way of asking for rest and recalibration.
+ How does burnout affect emotional, physical, and mental health?
Emotionally, burnout can leave you feeling numb or on edge. Physically, it often shows up as headaches, muscle tension, insomnia, or lowered immunity. Mentally, it clouds focus, memory, and creativity. Left unaddressed, burnout can ripple into every part of your wellbeing — which is why noticing these changes early is so critical to recovery.
+ What small steps can I take to prevent or recover from burnout?
Start by slowing down. Prioritise rest, movement, and activities that help you complete the stress cycle — such as walking, deep breathing, laughter, or creative expression. Set gentle boundaries around work and technology, and make self-care non-negotiable. Small, consistent acts of restoration can have a powerful cumulative effect.
+ What should I do if I think I’m already burned out?
First, take a deep breath — awareness is the turning point. Begin with compassion, not self-judgment. Take time off if possible, seek support from a trusted mentor or healthcare professional, and reconnect with what truly nourishes you. Healing from burnout takes patience, but you can absolutely rebuild your energy, boundaries, and sense of purpose.
The 5 Behaviours That Lead To Burnout (and what to do about them)
