Burnout—it’s a condition we hear about all the time, but do we truly understand it? More than just stress from a tough day at work, burnout happens after long periods of overwhelming stress, where the pressure feels constant and unrelenting. It doesn't develop overnight but builds up gradually, often without us noticing until it feels too late. Fortunately, burnout is preventable if you can recognize the early signs and take action before things spiral out of control.

So, what exactly should you be looking for? Here are some telltale signs that burnout might be creeping in:

1. Frequent and Unexplained Fatigue
You’re usually full of energy, but lately, you’re dragging, even after a good night's sleep. It’s not just tiredness—it feels like a deep, unshakable exhaustion that’s impacting your ability to function. This is one of the earliest signs that burnout might be taking hold.

2. A Sense of Constant Urgency
Do you feel like every task, no matter how small, has become a high-stakes emergency? That overblown sense of urgency, where everything feels critical, is another red flag. It means your body is stuck in a heightened stress response, making it harder to relax and recharge.

3. The Need to Control Everything
If you find yourself micromanaging every detail of your work or home life, it could be a sign that you’re feeling out of control. The more you try to handle, the more burned out you may become. Burnout often shows up as a need to "do it all"—a habit that only makes the stress worse.

4. Emotional Outbursts or Overreaction
Are you reacting more emotionally than usual? Whether it’s frequent irritability, outbursts, or even crying at things that wouldn’t normally upset you, emotional volatility is a clear indicator that burnout may be around the corner.

5. Constant Sickness
Suddenly catching every cold or minor illness that comes your way? Burnout weakens your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to sickness. If you’re usually healthy but suddenly feeling run-down, it’s a good sign your body is under more stress than it can handle.

6. Low Self-Esteem
If you’ve always had a healthy sense of self-worth but now find yourself doubting your abilities or feeling like you're "not enough," this could also be a signal of burnout. The constant pressure chips away at your confidence, leaving you questioning your value.

If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to act. Recognizing the signs early gives you the power to stop burnout before it takes a toll on your mental and physical health. Don’t ignore the warning signs—seek help from a mental health professional or talk to a trusted friend. Burnout doesn’t go away on its own, but with support, you can regain balance and prevent it from escalating.

Remember, burnout isn’t always work-related. It can strike anyone in any situation where stress feels never-ending. But the good news is, by identifying the signs early and seeking the right help, you can avoid the more serious consequences that come with burnout. Your wellbeing matters—don’t wait until it’s too late to take care of yourself.