Burnout explained: symptoms, recovery and how Schoen Clinic Chelsea specialists can help

Burnout is more than just feeling tired or stressed; it’s a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion that can affect anyone. At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, our specialists understand how complex burnout can be, whether it’s related to work, parenting, autism or ADHD. This guide explores the meaning of burnout, common symptoms of burnout, and how to begin recovery.

What is burnout?

So, what is burnout? The burnout meaning is often defined as a chronic state of exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, usually related to work or personal responsibilities. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recognises burnout as an “occupational phenomenon,” but it can affect people in all areas of life.

In simple terms, if stress feels never-ending and recovery seems impossible, you may be experiencing burnout.

Common burnout symptoms

The signs of burnout often appear gradually. Many people dismiss them as stress until they worsen.

Some of the most common burnout symptoms include:

• Constant tiredness or fatigue

• Difficulty concentrating

• Loss of motivation or interest in activities

• Increased irritability or anxiety

• Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach problems or sleep issues
  

If these symptoms sound familiar, you may be experiencing burnout and could benefit from professional support.

Types of burnout

Burnout doesn’t look the same for everyone. At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we frequently help people dealing with specific types of burnout, including:

1. Autistic Burnout

Autistic burnout is a state of intense exhaustion that many autistic people experience after long periods of navigating social expectations. Autistic burnout symptoms may include withdrawal, sensory overload and reduced ability to manage daily life.

2. ADHD burnout

ADHD burnout occurs when individuals with ADHD push themselves to keep up with demands, often without recognising their limits. Common ADHD burnout symptoms include mental fatigue, restlessness and emotional overwhelm.

3. Parental burnout

Parental burnout happens when caregiving responsibilities become overwhelming. Parents may feel emotionally drained, detached or unable to enjoy time with their children.

4. Job-related burnout

Work-related stress can lead to IT burnout symptoms or general job burnout. Deadlines, high expectations and long hours can leave employees asking, what does burnout feel like? The answer often includes exhaustion, loss of passion and a sense of being stuck.

What does burnout feel like?

Many people describe burnout as “running on empty.” It feels different from everyday stress; it’s deeper, longer lasting and harder to bounce back from. Some say it feels like being numb; others describe it as constant irritability or dread.

Recovery from burnout

The good news is that burnout is treatable. At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, our specialists provide tailored support to help patients find lasting relief.

Effective approaches to job burnout recovery or other forms of burnout may include:

• Therapy: Talking with a psychologist or psychiatrist can help you identify triggers and coping strategies.

• Medical support: For some, medication may support recovery alongside therapy.

• Lifestyle changes: Sleep, nutrition and exercise play a vital role in recovery.

• Boundaries: Learning to say no and managing expectations are essential steps in healing.

Why choose Schoen Clinic Chelsea for burnout recovery?

Our team of experts specialise in mental health treatment, with a particular focus on conditions that contribute to burnout, such as autism, ADHD and anxiety disorders.

At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, you will find:

• Specialist psychiatrists and psychologists experienced in burnout recovery

• A personalised approach for adults, parents and neurodivergent individuals

• Evidence-based treatment plans to help you regain balance and resilience

Take the first step

If you’re wondering what is the burnout, how to recover, or whether your symptoms might point to autistic or ADHD burnout, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we can help you understand, manage, and overcome burnout with compassionate, specialist care.

📞 Call us on +442031462300 or book an initial assessment online if you are self-funding treatment, let's take the first step toward recovery together.