Beyond Burnout: Recognising the Warning Signs Before You Crash

By Sarah Kewin

Burnout is more than just feeling tired after a busy week. It's a state of chronic stress that leaves you emotionally exhausted, detached, and feeling less capable.

Australians report some of the highest levels of burnout, with 82% of workers feeling burnout and over a third feeling extremely burnt out.

Today's burnout doesn't look like it did for previous generations. With smartphones keeping us perpetually connected to work and constant digital demands for our attention, the boundaries between work and rest have blurred beyond recognition.

Burnout seeps into your relationships, your physical health, your sense of self-worth, and can eventually lead to clinical depression and anxiety disorders. What most productivity podcasts won't tell you is that recovering from full-blown burnout doesn't just take a weekend of self-care.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms and they’re interfering with your day-to-day life, it may be worth speaking with a psychologist to explore what’s really going on beneath the surface.

Early Warning Signs Most People Miss

Physical signs:

Persistent headaches, digestive issues, tension in your shoulders and jaw, disrupted sleep patterns, constant fatigue no matter how much you rest

Emotional red flags:

Increased irritability, emotional numbness, losing pleasure in activities you used to enjoy, feeling detached from your own life

Mental symptoms:

Brain fog, difficulty making simple decisions, shortened attention span, forgetting things you normally wouldn't, reduced sense of achievement, growing cynicism and disengagement

Behavioural changes:

Cancelling plans more often, increased alcohol or substance use, procrastination despite consequences, withdrawing from people

Relationship impacts:

Shorter fuse with loved ones, physically present but mentally absent during interactions, viewing social connections as obligations rather than pleasures

If you're Googling "psychologist near me" or "psychologist Sydney" at 2am, that might be your nervous system’s way of trying to ask for help.

The Burnout Risk Factors Unique to Our Generation

Our generation faces distinct pressures that create perfect conditions for burnout:
• Economic instability, student debt, and housing costs that necessitate overwork
• Work cultures that glorify hustle and treat rest as weakness
• Social media's constant comparison trap and distorted views of "normal" achievement
• Geographic mobility that reduces in-person support systems
• Unprecedented pressure to excel in multiple areas simultaneously

Maintenance Factors

High achievement often masks burnout's progression. When you're still performing well externally despite internal struggles, it's easy to dismiss your symptoms as "just stress."

Perfectionism works as both cause and consequence. Impossibly high standards drive initial overwork, then failing to meet these standards as resources deplete creates shame that drains you further. Rather than resting when exhausted, perfectionists often push harder, blaming their depleted state on lack of discipline rather than recognising it as a natural response to chronic overextension.

External validation becomes addictive. Praise and recognition temporarily boost mood and self-worth, creating dependency that drives continued overwork despite diminishing internal resources.

Traditional self-care suggestions like "take a bubble bath" treat burnout as a scheduling problem rather than a systemic one. These quick fixes are insufficient when facing structural issues like unsustainable workloads or financial insecurity. They can even become another source of failure—now you're "bad at self-care" too. Real recovery requires addressing root causes, not just adding pleasant activities to an already overcrowded schedule.

A qualified psychologist can help identify whether you're dealing with chronic stress, high-functioning burnout, or early signs of anxiety or depression.

Breaking the Cycle: Prevention Strategies That Actually Work

Redefine success on your terms:

Clarify what genuine success means to you beyond external metrics and cultural expectations.

Create meaningful boundaries:

Establish digital limits, clear work hours, and social boundaries.

Practice strategic rest:

Don't wait until you're exhausted to rest. Schedule recovery periods pre-emptively, like regular maintenance for your mental health.

Check in with your values:

Regularly assess whether your daily activities align with what truly matters to you, and make adjustments before small misalignments lead to major dissatisfaction.

Manage energy, not just time:

Recognise which activities drain or restore different types of energy (mental, emotional, physical), and structure your days to avoid depleting any one system completely.

When to Seek Professional Support

It's time to reach out for professional help when:
• You're experiencing persistent sleep disturbances, panic attacks, or thoughts of suicide
• You're using substances to cope with daily stress
• Your relationships are significantly suffering despite your efforts
• You're unable to fulfill basic responsibilities despite trying your best
• Your burnout symptoms have persisted for more than a few weeks

Therapy specifically targeting burnout often focuses on reconstructing your relationship with achievement and self-worth. It helps dismantle the false belief that your value is tied exclusively to productivity, challenges perfectionistic thinking patterns, and builds resilience through self-compassion practices.

Working with a clinical psychologist—whether in-person or online—can help you understand and address the unique stressors contributing to your burnout, especially if you're unsure whether what you're experiencing is burnout, depression, or something else.

The path beyond burnout isn't about eliminating stress entirely—it's about creating a sustainable relationship with stress, where periods of stretching and striving are balanced with genuine recovery. Your ability to sustain energy for what truly matters depends not on pushing through at all costs, but on respecting your very human limits while honouring your capacity for renewal.

If you're in Sydney and searching for a psychologist who truly understands modern burnout, there is help available—and it doesn't have to wait until breaking point. For more information or to schedule a consultation with Sarah or one of our other psychologists, contact us at admin@brodieearl.com or call 0450 808 917.

Written by Sarah Kewin

Psychologist and Clinical Psychology Registrar

Brodie Earl Clinical Psychology

Why do I keep texting my ex? And should I stop?

So, you find yourself staring at your phone, debating whether to send that “Hey, how have you been?” message again. Maybe it’s late at night, you’re feeling lonely. Or you just saw something that reminded you of them. You’re in a new relationship (or they are), but somehow, the urge to reach out won’t quit.

This blog unpacks the psychology behind why you’re still staying in touch with your ex, even when you probably shouldn’t, and how to stop the cycle of this unhealthy relationship dynamic.

1. You’re Stuck in an Attachment Loop

Attachment theory suggests that our childhood experiences shape how we connect with romantic partners. If you have an anxious attachment style, you may struggle to let go, using continued contact as emotional reassurance. When they reply, it feels like there is hope of rekindling, especially if you’ve been on again/off again for a long time. You’re not reaching out because it’s good for them or good for you—you’re doing it because it temporarily eases your anxiety. Unfortunately, it truly is only temporary relief, because an ex who doesn’t want a relationship with you anymore, cannot meet your attachment needs. It’s a bandaid that lasts a little while, until the anxiety starts to creep in again, and the loop restarts.

On the flip side, if you’re avoidantly attached, you might check in occasionally to keep the connection going, but it holds them at arm’s length without committing to anything emotionally deep. This can feel safer if you have a pattern of not being comfortable when you get too close to people.

Either way, neither pattern leads to genuine closure.

2. Your Brain is Addicted to the Highs and Lows

Ever heard of intermittent reinforcement? It’s a concept from B.F. Skinner’s research (1953) that explains why people keep chasing unpredictable rewards—like refreshing Instagram to see if they’ve watched your story. When your ex occasionally replies (but not always, or not always in the enthusiastic way you’d have liked), it creates a dopamine-driven reward system, keeping you hooked. It’s like a poker machine - sometimes it feels like you win, and those wins are enough to keep you going back.

Even if the relationship was messy, your brain remembers those fleeting good moments. And that one “Hope you’re doing well” text? It’s just enough to make you spiral again.

3. It’s an Ego Thing

For some, staying in contact with an ex isn’t about love—it’s about validation. Research on narcissistic traits (Campbell & Foster, 2007) shows that some individuals use ex-partners to boost their ego. Or maybe they don’t have narcissistic tendencies, but they feel bad about themselves/their life/their relationship and texting an ex gives them the temporary validation of feeling good enough. But even if it isn’t malicious, it isn’t love or care, because it’s for their benefit, not yours. If your ex only pops up when their self-esteem is low (or when they see you moving on), they’re likely seeking reassurance, not reconnection.

A good question to ask yourself is, are you reaching out because you genuinely care, or because you want to see if they still care about you?

4. You’re Being Emotionally Guilt-Trapped

Ever received a text like “I don’t want to lose you completely” or “I just need closure”? Guilt, nostalgia, and obligation keep the cycle going. As difficult as it sounds, closure needs to come from you, not a perfectly scripted final conversation with them. The closure is that they don’t want to be with you. They may have been able to articulate why that is, they may have not given any reason at all. But the reason isn’t important, it’s the outcome that matters. And ultimately, you deserve someone who chooses you.

5. You’re Afraid to Fully Let Go

The sunk cost fallacy (Arkes & Blumer, 1985) explains why we struggle to walk away from things we’ve invested time in—even when they no longer serve us. If you spent years with your ex, cutting them off might feel like throwing all that history away.

And let’s be real—loneliness is incredibly painful. Research on fear of loneliness (Cacioppo & Cacioppo, 2014) suggests that people often keep exes around as emotional backups. But unfortunately, delaying the inevitable just prolongs the pain.

6. How Schema Therapy Can Help You Break the Cycle

Schema Therapy can help you figure out why you’re stuck in these patterns. It focuses on early maladaptive schemas—deep-rooted beliefs that shape your relationships.

• For those with an abandonment schema, you might keep texting your ex because you fear you’ll never find someone else.

• For those with a subjugation schema, you might stay in contact out of guilt, believing you owe them something.

• For those with a defectiveness schema, you may worry that you aren’t good enough to find another relationship or don’t deserve more than the breadcrumb text messages with your ex.

• Perhaps you feel emotionally deprived or neglected, and feel that this person was the only person who really understood you/cared about you/provided that emotional support.

Working with a clinical psychologist trained in Schema Therapy can help you understand your schemas and change these beliefs about yourself, set appropriate boundaries and respect others’ boundaries, and develop the skills to seek secure, stable relationships that make you feel content and happy.

Time for Some Tough Love: Should You Stop Reaching Out?

If you’re stuck in an ex-loop, ask yourself:

• Are you looking for genuine friendship, or just emotional validation?

• Are you looking for genuine friendship, or are you wanting something more?

• Is this affecting your current relationship? (If you have to hide it, that’s your answer.)

• Could this negatively impact their current relationship? (If their current partner saw these messages, would they get the impression that it’s crossing a line?)

• Is messaging going to make you feel empowered or just anxious and confused?

If you answered yes to these questions, it’s probably time to mute, block, or take a step back.

Final Thoughts

If you’re still scrolling through old texts, rewatching their Instagram stories, drafting messages in your notes app, or still sending “just checking in” messages to your ex—it’s time to ask yourself what you really want. Because chances are, it’s not another round of emotional limbo.

Obviously there are caveats and nuances to all situations. If there are kids involved, for example, that is a whole different kettle of fish. And we know it is possible to have platonic relationships with ex-partners. But if you know deep down what you want is not platonic, then speaking to a clinical psychologist may be helpful for understanding why and getting help to move on.

Looking for a psychologist to help you navigate post-breakup struggles? Our Sydney-based clinic offers expert guidance to help you build healthy relationship patterns and emotional resilience. Book a session today with one of our clinical psychologists.

Navigating Tic Disorders and Tourette's Syndrome: Insights and Effective Management

Living with tic disorders or Tourette's Syndrome can be incredibly challenging. As clinical psychologists based in Sydney, our goal is to offer compassionate insights into these conditions, their symptoms, causes, and available treatments. By understanding these disorders, we can take the first step toward managing them effectively and improving the quality of life.

What Are Tic Disorders?

Tic disorders are neurological conditions characterized by sudden, repetitive movements or sounds that are difficult to control. These tics can be motor (involving movement) or vocal (involving sound). Common motor tics include eye blinking, facial grimacing, and shoulder shrugging, while vocal tics can range from grunting to complex verbal utterances.

Types of Tic Disorders

1. Transient Tic Disorder: Tics that last for a short period, typically less than a year.

2. Chronic Tic Disorder: Tics that persist for more than a year, either motor or vocal, but not both.

3. Tourette's Syndrome: A more severe form involving both motor and vocal tics lasting for more than a year.

What Is Tourette's Syndrome?

Tourette's Syndrome is a chronic tic disorder involving both motor and vocal tics. It often begins in childhood and can vary in severity. While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Associated Conditions

Individuals with Tourette's Syndrome often also experience other conditions such as OCD and anxiety. Those with Autism or ADHD also often report experiencing tics at some point in their life.

In some cases, Tourette’s and Tic Disorders can unfortunately lead to physical health issues, including chronic pain or dental problems.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of tic disorders and Tourette's Syndrome remains unclear, but several factors are believed to contribute:

• Genetics: A family history of tics or Tourette's can increase the risk.

• Brain Structure and Function: Abnormalities in certain brain areas, neurotransmitters, and neural pathways.

• Environmental Factors: Stress, infections, and other external factors may play a role.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

Diagnosing tic disorders and Tourette's Syndrome typically involves a comprehensive clinical evaluation, including:

• Medical History: Understanding the patient's history of tics and any associated conditions.

• Observational Assessment: Monitoring and documenting the frequency, type, and severity of tics.

• Neurological Examination: Assessing brain function and ruling out other neurological conditions.

Treatment Options

While there is no cure for tic disorders or Tourette's Syndrome, several treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

1. Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral interventions, such as Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), can be very effective.

2. Medications: Certain medications can help reduce tic severity and address associated conditions like ADHD or OCD.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: We know you’ve heard it before, but it really does help - stress management techniques, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can contribute to overall well-being.

4. Support and Education: Providing support to individuals and families through education, support groups, and therapy can make a significant difference. Having those around understand your struggles and know how to react to your tics is a really important part of treatment.

Living with Tic Disorders and Tourette's Syndrome

Living with these conditions can be tough, but with the right support and strategies, individuals can lead fulfilling lives. Creating a supportive environment at home, school, and work is crucial for managing symptoms.

Tips for Coping

• Educate Yourself: Understanding the condition is the first step toward effective management.

• Seek Professional Help: Regular consultations with healthcare providers including clinical psychologist, neurologist, GP and/or psychiatrist can help monitor and manage symptoms.

• Build a Support Network: Connecting with support groups and others facing similar challenges can provide emotional support.

• Practice Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and engaging in hobbies can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Conclusion

Tic disorders and Tourette's Syndrome are complex conditions that require a comprehensive and compassionate approach to management. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of a tic disorder or Tourette's Syndrome, please reach out for professional guidance and support.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, feel free to contact us at admin@brodieearl.com or by calling on 0450 808 917. Together, we can work towards a better understanding and management of your tic disorder, offering a more hopeful future.

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