Are you the one who always holds space for others, even when your own tank is empty?
This episode is for the therapists, caregivers, helpers, teachers, parents, and nurturers—the ones who give more than they get. We’re diving deep into emotional burnout, what it looks like from a trauma-informed lens, and how the nervous system responds to chronic emotional labor.
You’ll learn:
The difference between burnout and depression
How trauma histories contribute to over giving
Why your body may feel shut down, numb, or foggy
The neuroscience behind burnout: amygdala overload, cortisol fatigue, and vagus nerve shutdown
How to begin somatic repair using grounding, breathwork, and polyvagal tools
We’ll also reflect on why so many of us link our worth to usefulness—and how to gently challenge that belief.
This episode is a soft landing. A reminder that your burnout is not a flaw—it’s feedback. And that your body isn’t broken, it’s protecting you.
✨ Includes a calming breath exercise and trauma-informed journal prompts to reconnect with your body and worth.
🎧 Runtime: ~9 minutes
🎙️ Host: Jessica Van Leer, Licensed Professional Counselor (Arizona)
Journal Prompts from the Episode:
What part of me believes rest isn’t allowed?
What am I still trying to prove by over-giving?
What would my body choose if I gave it a voice today?
Where am I seeking safety through performance?
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This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute therapy or create a therapeutic relationship. If you are in crisis or need support, please reach out to a licensed provider in your area.