Last Updated on February 1, 2025
If your partner has seemed increasingly stressed, tired, low, or irritable lately, they may be experiencing burnout. Burnout is a common but often misunderstood experience. The APA Dictionary of Psychology defines burnout as “physical, emotional or mental exhaustion, accompanied by decreased motivation, lowered performance and negative attitudes towards oneself and others.” It differs from medically diagnosed depression in that “burnout has been viewed as a syndrome developing in response to chronically adverse working conditions.”
Burnout is typically associated with individuals who work in chronically stressful, service-oriented positions, such as teachers, caregivers, nurses, or counselors. However, burnout from work can also occur in other non-helper roles or jobs where stress is present, such as tech jobs, corporate roles, or stay-at-home parenting. We’ve pulled together insights and evidence-based ideas on how you can support your partner struggling with work burnout.
What are the signs of work burnout?
High levels of chronic stress and a heavy workload are risk factors that can lead to emotional exhaustion and depletion, especially if your partner is not recharging during out-of-work hours. Poor work-life balance may also prevent your partner from resting adequately, both physically and mentally.
The below list of work burnout symptoms isn’t all encompassing. It’s important to note that not everyone experiences all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary.
Emotional signs of burnout
- Feeling drained, depleted, or overwhelmed
- Loss of enthusiasm and motivation
- Feeling cynical, detached, or numb
- Increased irritability or anxiety
Physical signs of burnout
- Gastrointestinal problems
- High blood pressure
- Poor immune response (getting sick more often)
- Reoccurring headaches
- Sleep issues
- Fatigue
Mental or cognitive signs of burnout
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Procrastination and reduced productivity
- Forgetfulness or confusion
- Feeling overwhelmed by tasks
Behavioral signs of burnout
- Increased absenteeism or tardiness
- Withdrawal from colleagues or social activities
- Increased substance use (e.g., alcohol, caffeine)
- Neglecting personal hobbies or interests
Identifying and openly talking about work stress symptoms is the first step in helping your partner recover from burnout. Addressing burnout signs not only improves your partner’s well-being but also strengthens your relationship during difficult times.
How to help your partner experiencing burnout from work
There are many ways to support your partner who may need help with burnout.
1. Encourage self-care.
Promote rest and relaxation outside of work hours. Encourage healthy coping mechanisms like exercise and non-work related hobbies and help your partner prioritize self-care activities.
2. Provide practical support.
Assist your partner with household chores and responsibilities. Consider taking on some of your partner’s typical tasks to lighten their physical or mental load.
3. Facilitate open communication.
Invite your partner to share their feelings and concerns with you. Actively listen without judgment and encourage your partner to express their needs and boundaries.
4. Offer emotional support.
Provide reassurance and validation for your partner’s experience. Express encouragement and affirmation as your partner shares how they’re feeling. Normalize that your partner may feel vulnerable talking about their burnout; remind them they are not alone.
5. Assist your partner in seeking professional help.
Speak with your partner about the potential benefits of counseling. If your partner is seeking therapy, offer to help them find a therapist. You can even accompany them to a counseling session.
How to take care of yourself as the supportive partner
Burnout recovery can take time. While it is normal to want to rescue someone you love when they are distressed, remember that you have limits and needs, too. Caring for yourself as you support your partner’s process is essential.
As you seek to promote and support your partner’s rest and self-care, be intentional about practicing your self-care and stress management techniques. This could include regular exercise, meaningful social engagement, or a mindfulness practice. Take time to participate in your favorite activities, hobbies, or exercise.
You may need to modify your self-care routines as you take tasks off your partner’s plate; just make sure not to neglect them altogether. Remember to seek emotional and practical support from friends, family, or a therapist.
Facing burnout together
Work burnout can feel overwhelming, especially if it has built up over time. Having strategies to support your partner helps. While you cannot ultimately solve burnout for your partner, you can create an emotionally supportive environment for them to take the necessary steps. Offer regular reassurance that you will keep walking beside them in the burnout recovery process.
Sometimes supporting a partner with burnout from work feels overwhelming without professional guidance. If you or your partner are ready to make an appointment with a compassionate therapist, we can help. Our practice offers in-person appointments in Charlotte, NC, and Carefree, AZ. We also have virtual sessions available for those who live in Arizona, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, or Texas. Contact us to get started.