Exhausted, Disconnected and Still Showing Up

My name is Jenny Hinther, and I’m a Provisional Psychologist here in Calgary, Alberta. If you’re reading this and currently experiencing burnout, I want you to know that I see you. I understand what you’re going through, and you are not alone.

Burnout is a very human response to prolonged stress. I don’t see it as a failure, but our body tells us something. It’s your mind and body that tells you that something in your life needs to be reassessed. While burnout is often described as exhaustion, it is much more than simply feeling tired.



Many people experiencing burnout feels numb, detached, or like they are running on an “empty battery.” This was true for me as well. I was juggling many roles at once: therapist, leader, student, and perfectionist. At the same time, I was trying to show up fully as a wife, daughter, sister, friend, and colleague. As a high achiever, failure felt unacceptable. Saying “no” or setting boundaries felt like I was letting people down or falling short of expectations. Rest felt undeserved. And like many people who experience burnout, I cared deeply about those around me, so I often put others’ needs first before my own needs.

Burnout comes at a cost, especially regarding our relationships. I was physically present, but often mentally and emotionally absent. I carried a great deal of guilt when I couldn’t be the best version of myself, particularly with the people who mattered most to me.

Eventually, I realized that the way I was living was not sustainable. I used to believe that vacations or time off would “fix” burnout, but I learned that burnout requires more than rest alone. Healing meant reassessing my boundaries, expectations, and sense of self-worth. It meant challenging beliefs about productivity and learning to develop a healthier relationship with myself.

Burnout is not a weakness. You are strong. You are enough.

If you are experiencing burnout, I encourage you to listen to your body and gently ask yourself what needs to change. Healing comes through compassion and self-care, not judgement. Lean into your support system when you need to. And please know that you do not have to navigate burnout alone. We are here to support you and help you find a more sustainable way forward.

Through the Woods Psychology, offers counselling for adults, children, and teens, both in person and online. If you’re curious about support, you’re welcome to visit our website to learn more or to book your free consultation today. You can also get in touch by email at info@throughthewoods.ca or phone at (403) 984-7922.