Burnout & The Asian American Experience

As an Asian American therapist, I find it necessary to utilize my role to advocate for those who feel scared to speak up, to be seen, and those who feel powerless, especially in my community. Collectivistic values in Asian cultures often conflict with individualism that is encouraged and reinforced in America. I was guilted and shamed for pursuing my own desires and needs that differed from my family’s, yet also confused with how to navigate conflicting messages of individuality. This experience is not uncommon amongst Asian American families and other cultural groups in the U.S. We grow up navigating the divide of two cultures, struggling to feel a part of both and sometimes feeling a part of neither.

As a child of immigrants, I was often given the message that I had to strive to achieve at all costs. It was implicitly conveyed that I had to minimize my needs and difficulties in order to ensure that my family’s sacrifice of giving up their comforts for better opportunities for their family and children was worth it. We often feel the need to stay productive, keep busy, and constantly achieve. This becomes our only way of feeling a sense of value, worth, and earning our place in society. As a result, our mental health is not an area of focus, and seeking help for mental health is often stigmatized as “weak”, “selfish”, or “unnecessary.” We often don't notice when we are fatigued or experiencing burnout because that feeling is normalized as a way of succeeding or feeling a sense of worth. 

What is Burnout?

Burnout is a commonly used term. You have likely heard it in reference to an intense workout regime or a 60-hour work week, but do you know what it actually looks like? Frequently, people do not recognize burnout until the consequences are far reaching. Burnout can feel like a lack of motivation, low energy, and cynical perspective. It can also appear as less compassion for others, irritability towards loved ones, and less desire to socialize. Take some time to reflect on how you engage with others when you are feeling fulfilled and energized. Is that how you are acting right now?

Recovering from burnout requires us to take time to make more space for ourselves. What does that look like? First, understand and realize that you have worth and value by just being you and being a human in this world. The perception of mental health has shifted. It is increasingly being seen as an equal to physical health. The mind and body are connected. If we are able to take steps towards ensuring physical wellness, we should do the same for our mental wellness.

Creating space to take care of your mental health will allow you to complete your goals and tasks more effectively and efficiently, and live a more fulfilling life.

If you are feeling burnt out or overwhelmed, reach out. Prioritizing your mental health will lead to growth in all areas of your life.