Understanding Burnout: Signs, Causes, and How to Recover

Aug 18

In today’s fast-paced world, burnout has become increasingly common. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or balancing the demands of family life, it’s easy to push yourself past healthy limits. At Bay Tree Therapy Group in Pleasanton, our therapists regularly work with children, teens, and adults who are navigating the heavy toll of stress and exhaustion.

Burnout is more than just feeling tired—it’s a state of emotional, physical, and mental depletion that impacts every part of life. The good news is, with the right support, healing and resilience are possible.

What Is Burnout?

Burnout is a response to prolonged stress, often connected to work, school, or caregiving responsibilities. Unlike temporary stress, burnout doesn’t go away after a good night’s sleep or a weekend off. Instead, it builds over time, leaving you feeling drained, unmotivated, and disconnected.

At Bay Tree Therapy Group, our therapists often describe burnout as “hitting a wall”—your mind and body telling you it’s time to pause and reset.

Common Signs of Burnout

Everyone experiences burnout differently, but some common symptoms include:

Emotional exhaustion – feeling depleted, overwhelmed, or unable to cope
Physical symptoms – frequent headaches, stomach issues, or disrupted sleep
Reduced performance – trouble concentrating, forgetfulness, or feeling ineffective
Loss of motivation – decreased interest in work, school, or responsibilities
Detachment – withdrawing from loved ones, feeling cynical, or emotionally numb

If several of these sound familiar, know that you’re not alone. Many clients who come to Bay Tree Therapy Group in Pleasanton are surprised to realize how much burnout has been impacting them until they slow down enough to notice.

What Causes Burnout?

Burnout often develops when demands consistently outweigh resources. Some common contributing factors include:

Chronic stress at work or school
Lack of boundaries between personal and professional life
Caregiver fatigue from supporting children, aging parents, or others
Unrealistic expectations (internal or external)
Limited rest or self-care

One thing we remind clients at Bay Tree Therapy Group is that burnout is not a personal failing—it’s a natural response when you’ve been under pressure for too long.

How to Recover from Burnout

Healing from burnout takes time, patience, and intentional changes. Here are some strategies that may help:

1. Acknowledge What You’re Experiencing

Recognizing burnout is the first step. Many people minimize their stress, but naming it brings clarity and relief. Our therapists in Pleasanton often encourage clients to pause and simply say: “I’m burned out, and that’s why everything feels harder right now.”

2. Set Boundaries

Learning to say “no” or limiting your commitments protects your time and energy. At Bay Tree Therapy Group, we help clients identify where boundaries are needed and how to maintain them without guilt.

3. Prioritize Rest and Self-Care

Burnout thrives when rest is neglected. Consistent sleep, movement, nourishing food, and downtime are all essential. Even small changes—like a 10-minute walk or a technology break—can help.

4. Reconnect with Joy

Burnout often drains the pleasure out of life. Reengaging with hobbies, nature, or meaningful relationships can restore balance. Our therapists often use therapy sessions to help clients rediscover what feels life-giving.

5. Seek Professional Support

Sometimes burnout requires more than self-care. Speaking with a therapist at Bay Tree Therapy Group can help you explore the root causes, build coping strategies, and create sustainable change.

You’re Not Alone

If you’re struggling with burnout, know that recovery is possible. At Bay Tree Therapy Group in Pleasanton, our therapists support children, teens, and adults in navigating stress, overwhelm, and burnout. Therapy offers a safe space to slow down, gain perspective, and learn healthier ways to move forward.

If you’d like to learn more about how therapy can support you or your family, reach out to Bay Tree Therapy Group in Pleasanton today. We’re here to help you feel balanced, resilient, and supported.

Allie Kaelin