Can You Be Burnt Out from Just… Existing?
(3 mins read)
The Rise of “Low-Grade Burnout” in Singapore
Ever felt exhausted the moment you wake up — even if nothing “big” is happening in your life? You’re not overwhelmed by deadlines, not battling a crisis… and yet, you feel drained, joyless, and detached. This quiet kind of burnout is real. And it’s more common than you think.
What Is Low-Grade Burnout?
Unlike the dramatic kind of burnout — where everything crashes at once — low-grade burnout is subtle. It sneaks in through everyday monotony, emotional disconnection, and a sense of surviving rather than living.
It might look like:
Sleeping a full night but still feeling tired
Struggling to feel excited about anything
Dreading routine tasks
Being more irritable, numb, or zoned out
It’s not always triggered by work stress. It can come from emotional overload, mental fatigue, or just holding it all together too long without a break.
Why It’s Happening More in Singapore / Asia
1. The “Productivity = Worth” Mindset
Many Singaporeans grow up equating value with achievement. Even rest can feel “unproductive,” creating guilt and anxiety even during downtime.
2. Invisible Emotional Labour
Caregiving, parenting, supporting aging parents — these invisible roles add up, especially for women. You're doing so much, but no one sees it… except your nervous system.
3. Lack of Emotional Outlets
In a culture where people often say “others have it worse,” we minimise our own struggles. But feelings don’t disappear — they pile up quietly.
It’s Not Laziness — It’s Exhaustion
Low-grade burnout is not about weakness. It’s about running on empty without realising it. You're not broken. You're just overdue for space — not just to rest, but to feel. And that starts by being heard.
DYK: A Listening Ear Can Help You Reconnect
At IHearU, our Listeners are trained social workers and mental health professionals who understand that burnout isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it's quiet. It's in the sighs, the silences, and the "I'm fine" masks. Whether you need someone to talk to without pressure, or you're ready to go deeper with a certified counsellor from Listener+ — we’re here.
Your Feelings Deserve Attention, Not Comparison
You don’t have to wait for things to fall apart before reaching out. Finding a listening ear can be the first small step back to yourself.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional counseling or therapy advice.
