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Rebah26New Contributor
Hi I’m feeling burnt out - probably not because of work but my son who has mental health illness
feeling so drained just don’t feel like I can do it anymore
he was diagnosed in 2013
I have so much sick leave at work! Took some this year but feel guilty for taking it!
just don’t know what to do anymore
🤦🏼♀️😢
In response to: Feeling burnt out
ShadowModModerator
Hey @Rebah26
A warm welcome and thanks for sharing your experiences with the community.
We hear just how burnt out you are feeling, and that this is having a big impact on your wellbeing. Being a parent can be draining, especially when you are navigating those challenges with your son's mental illness and having to work. To be feeling unsure of what to do now is so valid, and you are certainly not alone in your experience.
It takes courage to share your struggles with the community, and you are being really brave reaching out to your peers.
We hope the community will have some insights to share with you soon.
It is important you are also able to get some professional support with this, and to have a safe space to unpack these feelings further. If this is something you are needing, please do not hesitate to connect with Beyond Blue at any time for free and confidential support.
Take care!
In response to: Feeling burnt out
MatchaToadPeer Guide
Hey @Rebah26
I am so incredibly sorry you are carrying such a heavy load right now. What you are feeling right now is not a failure of your character; it is a natural response to over a decade of compassion fatigue.
Supporting a child living with a mental health condition since 2013 is an Olympic-level feat of emotional endurance. It is completely understandable that you feel like you can't do it anymore - you have been running on an empty tank for a long time.
Regarding your work situation, please try to be kind to yourself about the sick leave. Burnout is a health issue. If you had a physical injury from overexertion, you wouldn't hesitate to rest. Your mind and spirit are simply asking for that same grace. That leave is there specifically for times like this - to act as a safety net so you don't collapse.
You have spent years caring for your son. Using your leave is finally taking a moment to take care of you. You can't pour from an empty cup, and right now, you deserve to let yours refill without the weight of guilt.
Sending you a lot of strength. You are not alone in this feeling.
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Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
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