Burnout is not simply about feeling tired.

Sometimes, it hides behind that third cup of coffee…
That glass (or bottle) of wine after work…
That late-night scrolling binge with snacks you barely tasted.
Or the pills you’re relying on just to function.

We may not always recognize it, but when stress becomes chronic and support is limited, many of us turn to things that numb, stimulate, or distract, just to get through the day.

🧠 Increased caffeine to stay awake.
🍷 Alcohol to quiet the racing thoughts.
💊 Medication (prescribed or not) to get by.
🍔 Overeating or emotionally eating, not out of hunger, but exhaustion.
These are not signs of weakness.
They are indicators of burnout.

⚠️ When your job, your life, or your circumstances keep you in a constant state of depletion, your body will look for relief wherever it can find it.
But here’s the thing: coping is not the same as healing.
What we need is not more guilt, but more compassion, support, and spaces where we can discuss this without shame. You are not alone.
And it’s okay to ask for help.

Let’s stop glorifying hustle and normalize honest conversations about what burnout really looks like.