Burnout recovery stages

Specialist CBT therapy for anxiety, OCD, depression and more in West London

Rest can be an important part of recovering from burnout. It is not always sufficient on its own. Some people find that after a period of rest, the same patterns of exhaustion, disengagement or overwhelm return when they go back to work or resume ordinary responsibilities. A guide cannot diagnose burnout or determine whether rest, therapy, workplace change, medical review or another form of support is appropriate for an individual. Burnout is not a medical diagnosis. Physical symptoms such as chest pain, fainting, shortness of breath, severe fatigue, significant changes in sleep, appetite or concentration, or a sudden change in physical health should not be attributed to burnout without appropriate medical advice. Physical health conditions, medication, sleep disruption, neurodivergence, grief, relationship difficulties and other factors can all affect how a person feels and functions. Some people find that returning to work after burnout is difficult even when they feel physically rested. The same demands, beliefs about work, patterns of overcommitment or difficulty setting limits may still be present. A guide cannot determine which factors are relevant for an individual or what changes would be helpful. CBT may be considered after individual assessment where burnout is affecting daily life and work. It can involve exploring the links between demands, beliefs about work, behaviour, exhaustion and the short and longer-term effect. Any behavioural work should be planned with a suitably qualified clinician after discussion of the rationale, alternatives, safety and pacing. A guide is not a self-directed recovery programme. Workplace factors, including demands, control, support, relationships, fairness and values alignment, can all contribute to burnout. A guide cannot determine which workplace factors are relevant for an individual or what an employer's response should be. ACAS, a union, occupational health or an appropriate employment adviser can help with workplace and legal questions. For related information, see burnout prevention at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/burnout-prevention-west-london/, burnout measurement at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/burnout-measurement-and-diagnosis/, burnout subtypes at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/burnout-subtypes-explained/ and caregiver burnout at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/caregiver-burnout-west-london/. If there is immediate danger, thoughts of self-harm, an inability to stay safe or a sudden marked deterioration, call 999, attend A&E or use urgent local crisis or medical support.