Burnout: A Growing Concern Among Young People
Burnout is becoming an increasingly common issue, especially among young people. It's a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion that can build up over time, making it difficult to recognize and address. Many young individuals are experiencing burnout due to various factors, including unmanageable workloads and pressure, which can lead to pushing back important milestones, such as saving for a house.
One athlete, Laviai Nielsen, shares her story of burnout after winning Olympic medals. She felt burnt out emotionally, psychologically, and mentally, struggling to get out of bed and train. This highlights the impact of burnout on even the most accomplished individuals.
The charity Mental Health UK describes burnout as a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion. Young people, despite often being seen as advocates for improved mental health attitudes at work, are staying silent about their stress. The charity's 2026 burnout report reveals that this group faces pressures both inside and outside of work, with an uncertain job market and AI posing threats to entry-level roles.
University students are also struggling with burnout, as cognitive behavioral therapist Hannah Paskin notes. Mimi Abbas, a recent graduate, experienced burnout during her final year of university and struggled with job applications post-graduation. She describes the period as challenging, with endless job searching.
Dr. Becca Salmon, a former doctor, also shares her experience with burnout. She left her NHS job and took time to recover, emphasizing the importance of addressing burnout and the potential for recovery. Spencer Clark, a 23-year-old aspiring online fitness coach, relates to feeling burnout while pursuing his dream role.
The article also discusses the impact of social media and digital society on burnout, especially among young people. Therapist Paskin mentions the tendency to scroll endlessly, which can contribute to burnout. Choice overload, particularly for those heavily engaged in social media, is another factor.
To prevent burnout, Paskin suggests stepping back from the commercial world and phone use. Rest and taking breaks from stress are crucial for restoring energy. Laviai Nielsen, who prioritized rest, now has a more balanced approach to her life, nurturing aspects beyond athletics.
The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of self-care and taking rest, as it can help individuals recover from burnout and lead to a happier, more fulfilling life.
