Burnout in Women: You’re Not Lazy — You Might Just Be Really, Really Tired
*****DISCLAIMER*****: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional therapy, diagnosis, or medical advice. Reading this blog does not create a therapist-client relationship. If you are experiencing a mental health concern, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional in your area. If you are in crisis, please contact 911 or your local emergency services.
All views expressed are those of the author, based on professional experience and training as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts and Florida. Please consult with a qualified provider for guidance specific to your needs
Have you ever looked around at your to-do list, the laundry, the texts you haven’t answered — and just felt… stuck? Like your body and brain are too tired to even begin?
Maybe you’ve asked yourself, “Why can’t I just push through like I used to?”
Or “What’s wrong with me?”
If so, I want you to know this:
You’re not lazy. You might be exhausted, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally too. And if that’s the case, you’re not alone.
🌿 What Burnout Can Look Like
The word burnout gets used a lot, but it often doesn’t fully capture what someone may be going through. Some people describe it as a fog or a heavy weight. Others say it feels like they’ve run out of fuel, even when they’re technically getting enough sleep.
Here are some common signs people often talk about when they’re feeling stretched too thin:
Struggling to focus or stay motivated
Feeling emotionally flat or easily overwhelmed
Physical tiredness that rest doesn’t seem to help
Increased irritability or tearfulness
Losing interest in things they used to enjoy
Wanting rest, but feeling guilty for taking it
If any of this feels familiar, you’re not alone. These are things many people, especially women and caregivers, experience when they’ve been under too much stress for too long.
💡 Why It Can Be Especially Hard for Women
Women , and people raised to take care of others , often carry a lot:
Emotional labor in families and relationships
Expectations to be “the strong one”
A mental checklist that never stops
Pressure to be kind, productive, and available at all times
For some, past experiences or cultural/family roles can make it feel difficult to say no, set limits, or ask for help. Over time, constantly showing up for others without enough space to rest or be cared for can take a real toll.
And if you’re also navigating chronic stress, health concerns (like PCOS), parenting, trauma, or grief it makes sense that you might feel worn down.
This isn’t about weakness or failure. It may simply be a sign that something in your life needs care and attention , including you.
🙏 If You Come From a Faith Background
In some faith spaces, people are taught to pray harder or “stay strong” through tough times. While spiritual strength can be deeply meaningful, it can also feel isolating when you’re struggling emotionally and don’t know where to turn.
But rest is sacred too.
Even Jesus took time away from the crowds. Even He napped during the storm.
If rest feels wrong, or if you’ve been told that asking for support is a lack of faith it may be time to gently question that. Your body and your soul both deserve care.
🧠 What Can Help When You’re Running on Empty
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are a few things that many people have found supportive:
1. Name What’s Going On
Even saying “I’m really tired and overwhelmed right now” can be a powerful first step.
2. Allow Small Moments of Rest
Not just physical rest, but also emotional and mental. This could look like deep breathing, sitting in silence, turning off your phone for 10 minutes, or simply doing nothing without guilt.
3. Rebuild Connection With Your Body
Gentle movement, stretching, grounding exercises, or just noticing how your body feels can help support your nervous system and bring you back to the present.
4. Talk to Someone You Trust
That could be a therapist, a friend, a spiritual leader, or someone who sees and hears you without judgment. Sometimes, just being able to say “I’m tired” out loud can start the healing process.
🌼 You’re Not Lazy … You Might Just Be in Need of Care
You don’t have to be in crisis to deserve support.
You don’t have to “prove” your exhaustion.
You don’t have to do this all alone.
At Mailles to Wellness, I offer space for women and non-binary folks who are navigating stress, overwhelm, and big life transitions. Therapy can be a place to slow down, breathe, and figure out what healing might look like in a way that honors your story, your faith, and your needs.
📅 [Book a free consultation here]
💬 Questions People Often Ask
Can therapy help with burnout or emotional exhaustion?
Many people find that therapy provides a safe space to explore what’s behind their exhaustion; whether it’s stress, life changes, past experiences, or a combination of things , and to figure out what kind of care and support they need.
What’s a good first step?
You don’t have to overhaul your life overnight. Small steps like setting a boundary, asking for help, or resting without guilt are a great start.
🕊️ A Final Word
Whatever you're carrying, I want to remind you:
You are allowed to rest.
You are allowed to need help.
You are allowed to show up for yourself, too.
Whether you call it burnout or just a heavy season — you don’t have to keep pushing through it alone.
If you’d like support from someone who understands, I’d be honored to walk with you.
