Dyslexic Burnout: Boundaries, Stress and Asking for Support

I used to try to handle everything myself, then wonder why I was so drained. In this podcast, I talk about dyslexic burnout as an entrepreneur, the difference work boundaries made for me and why talking things through can matter. My experience is not a diagnosis or a promise that the same approach will work for everyone.

In the recording, I describe how exhaustion feels for me. That personal account cannot distinguish burnout from depression or another health issue in someone else. Persistent fatigue, low mood or trouble functioning deserves a conversation with a qualified health professional. This episode offers reflection and support, not a diagnosis.

What Is Dyslexic Burnout?

Dyslexic burnout is more than simple tiredness. It’s that deep sense of exhaustion that feels like it’s sitting behind your eyes and making your thoughts churn at half speed. You might struggle to focus, get easily distracted or feel overwhelmed by tasks that once seemed straightforward.

When you have dyslexia or ADHD, burnout can creep up in unique ways. You may depend on creative bursts of energy to get things done. Yet, when stress piles up, your typical spark fizzles. Stephen describes dyslexic burnout as an “all systems go” scenario that quickly transitions into “all systems offline.” That’s why it’s so tricky - once your engine is done, it can feel like you’re stuck in a ditch, pressing the gas but going nowhere.

Short-Term vs Long-Term Burnout

If you’ve ever had a tough week at work and felt knocked out on Friday, that’s short-term burnout. You’ll likely bounce back over the weekend, ready to tackle Monday. There’s another kind that creeps in more slowly, leaving you in a constant state of exhaustion or anxiety. This is long-term burnout.

Long-term burnout can feel like a fog that won’t fully lift. It keeps you from getting real rest. You might notice yourself feeling detached from your goals or loved ones. Stephen highlights how important it is to differentiate between both types, because they need different solutions. Short-term burnout may clear up with a break. Long-term burnout might signal a deeper issue in your daily routines, your stress levels or your mindset.

Identifying Your Burnout Triggers

Understanding your triggers is key. This could be an endless to-do list, pressure to perform or even emotional stress you’ve bottled up. Dyslexic and ADHD minds are especially sensitive to overstimulation or feeling cornered by deadlines.

Stephen points out that the time of year also makes a difference. Holidays, financial quarters, or big life events can pile on the pressure. Some people crave more stimulation to break the monotony, while others need peace and quiet. Neither is right or wrong. The trick is to stay aware of what works for you and notice when you’re overdoing it.

Practical Strategies for Relief

So, how do you climb out of the burnout hole? Stephen believes it starts with day-to-day habits. You might try a simple meditative practice or short bursts of exercise - anything that helps you break negative thought patterns and gets your body moving.

Talking to someone was an important part of my experience. In the episode, I describe a conversation with my business partner that helped me realise I had misunderstood how the business was doing. It changed the pressure I thought I needed to put on myself.

I also share how setting limits around working evenings and weekends helped me. That is something to explore in your own circumstances, not a guarantee of recovery.

Many listeners find that going for a walk or doing creative hobbies relieves stress. Others prefer journalling or reading short articles that spark fresh ideas. When you break down your stress management techniques into small, doable steps, it’s easier to keep them going.

Nurturing a Support Network

It can be hard to talk about mental health, but letting others in makes a big difference. Support could come from friends who share similar dyslexic challenges, family members who encourage you to take a break or even a professional counsellor. Sharing your struggles helps people understand what you’re going through.

In the episode, Stephen also discusses how guilt often keeps us from taking proper time off. Yet it’s crucial. You need space to refuel. Finding people who remind you it’s okay to pause can shift your entire attitude. If you’re feeling alone, consider joining a dedicated group - sometimes just knowing someone else is in the same boat eases stress. This group might be online, in-person or a combination of both.

• Avoid pushing yourself when you feel the strain. It’s not weakness, it’s self-care.
• Schedule regular breaks to prevent minor burnout from spiralling into major burnout.
• Connect with people who get it. You don’t have to face this struggle alone.

Keeping a positive routine, recognising triggers and having proper support can all help you navigate burnout times without losing your momentum.

Key Takeaways

• It’s crucial to spot early signs of dyslexic burnout and differentiate between short-term and long-term fatigue.
• Talking about your feelings doesn’t just help you cope, it also provides fresh insight.
• Stimulation can be both a friend and a foe, depending on your sense of balance.
• Self-awareness empowers you to choose the right stress-relief methods.
• Burnout isn’t unusual in adults with dyslexia or ADHD - support and self-care can get you back on track.

Now that you’ve got a solid overview, I hope you’ll take these suggestions to heart. For the full scoop - and to hear more of Stephen’s stories and tips - be sure to listen to this episode of “Truth About Dyslexia.”

If you’d like more resources on dyslexia, or if you want to find a supportive community, visit truthaboutdyslexia.com, join our Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/adultdyslexia, and follow the supplement journey at rightsiders.org/wait-list. Your burnout doesn’t have to define you. You’ve got options and a supportive community here to help.

Keep exploring

• Recognising overload and easing the load
• What happens when my brain stays on overdrive
• Explore support for adult dyslexia at work