A few weeks ago, an IT professional from Bangalore shared his story online—it resonated with so many of us. After months of working 12-hour days, handling client calls at odd hours, and skipping meals to meet deadlines, he found himself in a hospital bed. Diagnosis? Exhaustion and stress-induced hypertension. What he thought was just “part of the hustle” turned out to be full-blown burnout.

Burnout isn’t just about feeling tired. It’s that deep sense of exhaustion, hopelessness, and detachment that doesn’t go away with a weekend off. Work is often the biggest culprit, especially in high-pressure environments. Tight deadlines, long hours, and a lack of appreciation can wear anyone down. But unlike regular stress, which comes and goes, burnout lingers—it’s like carrying a heavy backpack you can’t put down.

The effects are far-reaching. Your health takes a hit—constant fatigue, headaches, and even falling sick often. Your relationships suffer because you’re too irritable or too drained to engage. And your productivity? It nosedives.

How to Manage Burnout

1. Pause and Prioritise: Take a step back. Your health comes first—work can wait.
2. Set Boundaries: Learn to say “no” to extra tasks that you just can’t handle.
3. Reconnect with Joy: Go back to the hobbies you loved—painting, cooking, or even just watching a good movie.
4. Talk It Out: Share what you’re feeling with someone you trust. You’re not alone.
5. Eat well, sleep well, and move your body. Small changes can bring big relief.

If the mental burden doesn’t lift despite trying these steps, reach out to a psychologist. They can help you untangle the mess and find a way forward. Remember, burnout doesn’t mean you’re weak, it means you’ve been strong for too long. Asking for help is the first step to healing.