What should you know about burnout is real?

The experience may include emotional exhaustion, cynicism, reduced sense of achievement, headaches, muscle tension, [Fatigue](/symptoms/fatigue/) or [Irritability](/symptoms/irritability/). It can be difficult to tell burnout apart from depression, anxiety, thyroid problems, anaemia or a sleep disorder without an assessment. Taking symptoms seriously does not require you to prove that you are struggling to anyone else.

Start by telling someone trustworthy what has changed and write down sleep, energy, mood and work demands. Reduce avoidable commitments, take real pauses and choose a manageable routine rather than trying to compensate with extra effort. Ask for clinical support if symptoms are persistent or disruptive; [Difficulty Concentrating](/symptoms/difficulty-concentrating/) can be useful language when explaining work effects.

Make a health appointment when rest does not restore function, relationships are suffering, or you are using substances to cope. Seek urgent support if you may harm yourself, feel unsafe, cannot meet basic needs or experience a mental-health crisis. Emergency services are appropriate when danger is immediate.

What else could explain these symptoms? Which changes should I make first? How will we review whether I am improving? What support is available if work demands cannot change quickly?