Running on fumes is still running on fumes.

A useful starting point

Burnout is often described as emotional and physical exhaustion linked to prolonged pressure. People may feel detached, irritable, cynical, less effective or unable to recover even when they technically have time off. Other mental or physical health problems can feel similar, so context matters.

Things worth trying or noticing

• Look at what is repeatedly draining energy rather than only trying to recover faster.
• Separate urgent work from work that simply feels urgent.
• Protect genuine off-duty time where possible.
• Talk early when workload, caring responsibilities or expectations are becoming unsustainable.
• Seek professional support if exhaustion is persistent, worsening or accompanied by significant low mood, anxiety or loss of functioning.

Where next?

The Mental Wellbeing guide explores routines, rest and psychological breathing room, while Psychoruptcy looks at Dr Hashmi’s idea of psychological resources and depletion.