As a therapist, what is more concerning to me than burnout itself is that it has been normalized. Along with realizing that a lot of the people I talk with think that burnout is “normal,” neurodivergent clients experience burnout at a more intense and frequent rate than others. My 20-something neurodivergent friend recently told me that he expects burnout in life. While burnout does not have to be a normal part of life, after researching statistics of burnout in the neurodivergent population I have a better understanding of why he expects burnout is going to happen at some point.

According to Psychology Today (www.psychologytoday.com), “neurodivergent people are particularly susceptible to burnout.  They are already operating in a world not built for their brains. Add in work or home and you have a recipe for disaster.” It makes sense to me that neurodivergent people may burn out faster and take longer to recover than their counterparts.

On the flipside, I would still like to propose that burnout does not have to be normal or expected. It is counter-cultural to build in rhythms of rest, renewal and reflection. And yet, this is what we must do to become and stay healthy. We must create margins in our life of down time that allow us to do things like rest, read, exercise or stretch, cook, journal and just be with ourselves and those we care for. Without margins, we run ragged and forget to check-in with ourselves and those we love.

Here are some practical ways to prevent burnout:

1. Do some form of movement such as walking, stretching or yoga regularly.
2. Eat well and drink water. Limit sugar, processed foods and alcohol.
3. Get enough quality sleep.
4. Practice self-care. Spend time doing things that bring you peace and joy.
5. Connect with those you love on a regular basis.
6. Create margin. Leave space in your schedule with no agenda. When the time comes, do what you need—take a nap, put your bare feet in the grass, drink water, stretch, go outside and breathe fresh air, journal or make a therapy appointment.

We do not have to accept burnout as normal. If you are feeling burned out, please seek help. Make an appointment with your medical doctor to rule out any medical reasons for how you are feeling. And then, make an appointment with a licensed mental health counselor. An experienced therapist can help you identify what needs to change in your life and help you create goals to make said changes. If you are worried that someone you love is experiencing burnout, lovingly let them know. Pick up the phone or meet up with them and let them know you are concerned and there to support them.

If you are experiencing burnout or need help supporting a loved one who may be, our seasoned and knowledgeable mental health therapists are here to help. Please contact Life Enhancement Counseling Services today at 407-443-8862 to schedule an appointment.