Is it Burnout or is it Just August?

support530499
Jul 15
3 min read

How to Know When Your Exhaustion Needs Attention

August has a strange energy. Summer is winding down, but the demands haven’t eased up. Parents are scrambling to prepare for back-to-school, professionals are navigating Q3 deadlines, and everyone seems to be running on empty. If you're feeling drained, unmotivated, or emotionally flat—you’re not alone.

But how can you tell if you’re simply tired from the busy season or if you’re experiencing true burnout?

Understanding the Signs of Burnout

Burnout is more than just being tired. It’s a deeper emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion that doesn't go away with a weekend off or an extra hour of sleep. Some common signs include:

Constant fatigue (even after resting)
Irritability or emotional numbness
Difficulty concentrating
Loss of motivation or productivity
Sleep changes (too much or too little)
Physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or muscle tension
Feeling disconnected from work, loved ones, or your purpose

Why August Feels Heavy

There are a few reasons August can trigger these feelings:

Summer fatigue – After months of disrupted routines, vacations, late nights, and juggling responsibilities, your body and mind are tired.
Transition stress – The shift into the school year or busier work schedules adds pressure and anticipatory anxiety.
Unrealized summer goals – That trip you never took, the home project that’s still unfinished, or the weight loss you didn’t start—August can bring guilt and self-judgment.
Weather changes – Shorter days and hotter temperatures can affect your mood and energy levels, especially in those sensitive to seasonal changes.

How to Reset Instead of Powering Through

If you're running on fumes, it’s time to pause and care for yourself. Here are a few tips:

Check in with your body and mind – Ask yourself what you need today: is it movement? Rest? Quiet?
Set boundaries – Say no to new commitments. Protect your weekends or evenings to truly recharge.
Simplify your expectations – Focus on the essentials, both at home and work.
Reconnect to purpose – Revisit what gives you meaning. A short walk, prayer, journaling, or conversation with a trusted friend can help you re-center.
Seek support – Talking to a therapist or mental health provider can help you distinguish between burnout and other mental health concerns like depression or anxiety. You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Resources to Help You Reset

Here are a few helpful tools to support your mind, body, and spirit:

Books

Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski & Amelia NagoskiScience-backed strategies for moving through stress and protecting your emotional health.
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark ComerA faith-based reflection on slowing down to live a more spiritually connected, peaceful life.
Try Softer by Aundi Kolber A Christian therapist’s guide to gentle self-compassion and emotional healing.
Atomic Habits by James Clear A powerful tool to help rebuild healthy rhythms one small habit at a time.

Podcasts

“The Next Right Thing” with Emily P. Freeman Calm, spiritual reflections for those feeling overwhelmed with decision fatigue.
“The Place We Find Ourselves” with Adam Young Faith-integrated emotional health topics, including trauma, burnout, and boundaries.
“The Lazy Genius” with Kendra Adachi Helpful tips for creating structure and peace in daily life without perfectionism.

You’re Not Lazy—You’re Likely Overextended

If you find yourself beating yourself up for feeling “off” or “behind,” take a moment to remember: burnout isn’t a moral failure. It’s a signal. And August might be the perfect time to listen, reflect, and reset before heading into fall.

At Endurance Mental Health & Wellness, we help patients build sustainable, meaningful rhythms that support both emotional and physical health. If you're feeling overwhelmed or out of alignment, we're here to help.