Chronic Fatigue & Energy Issues
Burnout
Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, often work-related. It involves HPA axis dysfunction, neurotransmitter depletion, and metabolic changes. Functional medicine addresses the physiological impacts of chronic stress and supports recovery through targeted nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle changes.
Common Symptoms
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of Burnout
Emotional exhaustion and detachment
Cynicism and reduced sense of accomplishment
Physical fatigue and low energy
Insomnia or poor sleep quality
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability and mood swings
Frequent illness
Loss of motivation
Anxiety and depression
Physical symptoms (headaches, muscle tension)
Root Causes
Understanding what drives Burnout
Chronic work stress and overwork
Lack of control and autonomy
Insufficient rest and recovery
HPA axis dysfunction (cortisol dysregulation)
Neurotransmitter depletion (serotonin, dopamine)
Poor sleep
Nutrient deficiencies
Lack of social support
Perfectionism and unrealistic expectations
Burnout and Stress Assessment
We evaluate stress physiology and identify the biological impacts of chronic stress.
Cortisol (salivary 4-point curve)
DHEA-S
Neurotransmitter testing (if available)
Thyroid panel
Vitamin D, B12, magnesium, iron levels
Inflammatory markers
Sleep quality assessment
Psychological assessment (burnout inventory)
Burnout Recovery Protocol
Our approach restores stress resilience, replenishes depleted resources, and supports mental health.
Mandatory rest and time off
Stress management techniques (meditation, breathwork, yoga)
Adaptogenic herbs (ashwagandha, rhodiola, holy basil)
B-complex vitamins
Magnesium glycinate
Omega-3 fatty acids
5-HTP or L-tyrosine for neurotransmitter support
Sleep optimization (consistent schedule, sleep hygiene)
Regular exercise (gentle, not excessive)
Social connection and support
Cognitive behavioral therapy or counseling
Boundary setting and workload reduction
Expected Outcomes
Restored energy and vitality
Improved mood and emotional resilience
Better sleep quality
Normalized cortisol patterns
Enhanced cognitive function
Renewed sense of purpose and motivation
Better work-life balance