The Impact of Burnout on Women: Insights from a Psychotherapist

Women are more susceptible to burnout than men, with 93% of women experiencing extreme stress, according to a recent report from Mental Health UK. The mental load, defined as the cognitive effort involved in managing home, relationships, and family, plays a significant role in this burnout epidemic.

The never-ending to-do list of daily responsibilities can lead to emotional exhaustion and a disconnect from one’s own needs. This disconnect can dull the mind-body connection and ultimately lead to burnout. Recognizing burnout is crucial, with symptoms including emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a decreased sense of accomplishment.

Overcoming burnout requires completing the stress response cycle and finding ways to release stress. Movement, using breath, crying, prioritizing one’s needs, and co-regulation with loved ones are all effective strategies to combat burnout.

Research shows that movement is a powerful way to improve mood and manage emotions, with activities like walking, yoga, running, and strength training being as effective as anti-depressants. Using breath to activate the parasympathetic nervous system and crying to release stress are also important tools in overcoming burnout.

Prioritizing one’s needs and nourishing connections with loved ones can also help in managing burnout. For more advice on managing burnout, a four-week course called EmpowerHer, designed to support women struggling with burnout, will be available starting on April 4th.