In the fast-paced landscape of modern working life — especially in South Africa’s competitive and often unstable job market — many young professionals find themselves overwhelmed, exhausted, and questioning their ability to cope.

Long hours, relentless meetings, the pressure to be constantly available and continuously prove your worth… yet many feel like they are barely holding it together.

Let’s clarify one thing:

You are not lazy. You may be experiencing burnout.

Burnout Is Not a Weakness — It’s a Warning Sign

Burnout does not always present itself dramatically. It often develops slowly, showing up as:

1. Persistent fatigue, even after a full night’s sleep
2. Guilt when taking a break
3. Irritability and tension in relationships
4. Heightened anxiety at notifications or work emails
5. Emotional outbursts or silent tears after meetings

These signs are more common than you think.

According to the Solidarity Research Institute (2022), over 45% of South African employees report experiencing symptoms of burnout — with the numbers rising significantly in professionals under 35. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) highlights burnout as a leading contributor to emotional distress and absenteeism.

Why “Just Push Through” May Be Doing More Harm

Many professionals have internalised the belief that they must constantly be “hustling” to succeed — that rest is indulgent, and boundaries are signs of weakness. But over time, this mentality leads to emotional depletion, physical strain, and loss of motivation.

Even a fulfilling career can become unsustainable without healthy boundaries.

You Deserve to Protect Your Mental Health

You are allowed to:

• Rest without guilt
• Say “no” without explanation
• Be respected, not just productive
• Prioritise your well-being without losing your ambition

Burnout is not a personal failure — it is a sign that something needs to change. And therapy can help facilitate that change.

You do not need to choose between your career and your mental health. With support, it is possible to maintain both.

Take the First Step

If this resonates with you, consider reaching out. Therapy offers a confidential space to explore your challenges, regain clarity, and develop practical tools to restore balance.

How I Can Help

In my practice, I work with professionals navigating:

• Chronic stress and burnout
• Performance anxiety and fear of failure
• Difficulty setting boundaries at work
• Self-doubt and low confidence
• Navigating workplace conflict

Burnout is common — and it is treatable. Therapy gives you space to pause, reflect, and make meaningful change.

I am here to support you.

Dr. Leonora de Villiers
Registered Psychologist | Helping professionals reclaim peace and purpose

In-person sessions available in Roodepoort
📞 082 497 3765
🌐 Book a session

Let’s work together to help you feel like yourself again — more calm, clearer, and more in control.

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