We joined RNZ Nine to Noon to talk about recognising burnout before it takes hold.
Why it matters
Most of us carry more than we let on. The point isn't to fix everything at once — it's to notice what's happening and take one small, honest step. That's where change actually starts.
You don't need a diagnosis to start looking after yourself. You just need to start.
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Try this: set a two-minute timer, write down what's on your mind, then pick just one item to act on today.
The signs to watch for
Changes tend to creep in slowly. Sleep gets lighter, patience gets shorter, and the things that used to feel easy start to feel heavy.
- Feeling tired even after a full night's sleep.
- Dreading things you used to enjoy.
- Withdrawing from the people around you.
What helps
- Name the feeling before you try to solve it.
- Pick one thing you can change this week, not ten.
- Talk to someone — a mate, a manager, or a clinician.
At work
Small adjustments — a protected lunch break, a clearer priority list, a candid conversation with your manager — compound quickly.
When to get support
If any of this sounds familiar, the Clearhead app has free, Kiwi-made tools to help you take that first step — and a therapist when you are ready for one.
