What is burnout?

Burnout is often described as a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, particularly in work or caregiving roles. While it is commonly attributed to personal shortcomings or a lack of resilience, this understanding only scratches the surface. Burnout is not just about feeling overworked or tired—it is a complex response to systemic pressures, unrealistic demands, and environments that fail to support the well-being of those who dedicate themselves to serving others. It manifests as chronic fatigue, detachment, reduced effectiveness, and a diminished sense of purpose, often leaving individuals feeling isolated and depleted.

From a relational perspective, burnout is deeply connected to the systems and structures we operate within. For example, aid workers, teachers, and social workers often function in environments shaped by colonial, capitalist, and individualistic ideologies. These systems prioritize productivity, efficiency, and extraction over care, connection, and community. In such contexts, burnout is not a personal failure but a symptom of larger systemic issues. It reflects the ways in which these systems deplete individuals, erode relationships, and disconnect people from the collective support needed to thrive.

Understanding burnout through a relational and decolonial lens allows us to move beyond individual blame and toward systemic change. It highlights the importance of addressing the root causes of burnout—power imbalances, inequities, and disconnection from community and land. Healing from burnout, then, is not just about self-care or recovery; it is about re-imagining our relationships with ourselves, others, and the systems we navigate. It invites us to create spaces where care, mutual support, and collective resilience are valued as the foundation of a healthy and just world.