Beyond burning out – how do we stay well?
Many school staff come to see me when they are experiencing a high level of stress.
Some wonder about burning out/burn out, and many just want to get a good night sleep, feel less flat, or feel less overwhelmed. Psychiatry Professor Gordon Parker at UNSW is my go-to expert source for all things burnout related. He uses the WHO definition, which is a non-clinical definition, and instead “an occupational phenomenon, resulting from excessively demanding workplace pressures” (and he includes high-demand caring for elderly parents and/or children too) (2025).
An interesting consideration about burnout is that it carries many similar symptoms to depression, and depression can (but not always) warrant a clinical diagnosis. Indeed, some people may experience only burnout, some only depression, and some both. Shared symptoms may include low energy, a loss of pleasure in everyday activities, and impaired concentration skills.
Professor Parker suggests looking at the root-causes of stress (eg workplace stressors) to aid in identifying burnout, and also considering personality types such as perfectionism which may lead people to a higher risk of burnout. Parker also notes that while burnout might lead to feelings of helplessness, from a sense of overwhelm; those with depression might more commonly have impacted self esteem, and thus harbour feelings of hopelessness (2025).
So what can we do?
Identifying what is contributing to the stressors (eg aspects of our role, or our school workplace) and making possible changes there is a good starting point; but also taking a break from school or even changing workplaces can help.
Treating the symptoms can also be helpful, and here Prof Parker notes vigorous exercise, mindfulness and meditation (2025), to which I’d add helpful sleep habits to support a good night’s rest.
A great first step is to talk with your GP about what’s going on, and if you need some support getting there, chat with a friend or family member. There is always help and a hope-filled way forward toward a different, less stressed, life!
References:
Parker, G. (2025). “What’s the difference between burnout and depression?” The Conversation. Source: https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-between-burnout-and-depression-250043?
Parker, G., Tavella, G., & Eyers, K. (2022). Burnout: A guide to identifying burnout and pathways to recovery. Routledge.
Melinda Phillips, Director/Principal Psychologist at Compassionate Schools.
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