Begin by establishing a judgment-free environment in which they can freely express their emotions. To lighten their workload, offer to assist with doable tasks or recommend that they take a brief respite to refuel. Remind them of the options available for mental health, including counseling or stress management courses, and urge them to put self-care first. Give them credit for their efforts and reassure them that asking for assistance is acceptable. Offering a listening ear and conducting routine check-ins can offer emotional support. If necessary, discuss with management how to modify their duties in order to avoid more fatigue. Your empathy and helpful assistance can have a big impact on their wellbeing.

Having recently navigated burnout myself, I've found that just five minutes of mindfulness each day can be powerful. High-pressure environments often make people feel isolated in their struggles, so taking time to check in, be mindful of the moment, live in the present, and breathe deeply goes a long way. Encouraging others to prioritize breaks and personal boundaries fosters a culture where resilience and wellness go hand in hand

Google employee of 10 years here. I've clinically burnt out twice. I also coach tech employees to improve their health and stress management. Here's what's worked for me and my clients: 1) Proper Support: Burnout can range from structural to clinical. Sometimes people need a friend or a coach; other times, they need a therapist or doctor. 2) Self-Compassion: Helping them practice self compassion can encourage positive self-talk and action. Burnout can be isolating and promote feelings of failure. Self compassion is the foundation to begin again. 3) Confident Action: Start with small steps they feel 9 or 10/10 confident in doing. Focus on consistency vs. perfection. This helps rebuild belief in their self efficacy.

I would kindly suggest seeking professional advice. There could be various factors and causes contributing to this situation. I believe it is a personal matter that should be handled with discretion and privacy. Celine

As a leader, it’s crucial to be actively engaged with your team, listening to their concerns and providing practical solutions. Acknowledge their hard work and contributions, and celebrate milestones and quick wins to boost morale. Encourage regular breaks to help prevent burnout, and recognize their achievements to motivate and inspire the entire team. This supportive approach fosters a positive work environment and reinforces that their well-being is a top priority.

Ask your coworker for a walk and talk or lunch together in a comfortable and private space. Ask them how they are doing then actively listen. Burnout is often caused by a multitude of factors so this conversation can help you understand how best to help. If the cause is related to work, you can help them prioritise their tasks and to understand what can be delayed, delegated or deleted. Help your coworker to set work boundaries and to plan time to focus. Are there meetings they can decline or delegate? Encourage enough quality sleep and regular recharge during the day. Recommend the basics like having lunch away from the desk and at least two additional recovery sessions of 15 minutes.

To support a burned-out coworker, first create a safe space by showing empathy and listening without judgment. Offer to help prioritize or share tasks where possible to lighten their load. Encourage them to take short breaks or utilize any wellness resources available. If appropriate, gently suggest discussing workload adjustments with the manager. Small gestures like checking in regularly, acknowledging their hard work, or even sharing helpful productivity tips can make a big difference. Reinforce that they're not alone and that support is available, fostering a collaborative environment that eases the pressure.

Supporting a burnt-out coworker in a high-pressure environment starts with empathy and practical help. Approach them privately, offering a listening ear without judgement. Encourage them to take breaks and suggest delegating or prioritising tasks, if possible. Share any resources available, like employee assistance programmes or wellness options. Offer to help with small tasks or act as a sounding board for workload management, reinforcing that it’s okay to seek support. Sometimes, suggesting they speak to a manager about workload adjustments can make a difference. Small, understanding gestures can help them regain balance without feeling isolated.

To support a burnt-out coworker in a high-pressure environment, start by acknowledging their hard work and listening without judgment. Offer to help prioritize or reallocate tasks, focusing on what's most impactful to reduce their load. Encourage breaks, even small ones, to help them recharge and reset. Suggest connecting with resources, like mental health support or time management tools, if available. Sometimes, simply checking in regularly and offering a safe space to vent can be powerful. Show that you're there for them, helping to ease the pressure and reminding them they’re not alone.

When a coworker is battling burnout in a high-pressure environment, platitudes won’t cut it. It’s not about saying “hang in there” or suggesting another yoga session—it's about tangible action. First, create a safe space where they feel heard. Sometimes, the most powerful support is simply listening without judgment. But don't stop there. Offer to help redistribute workload or brainstorm practical solutions that lighten their load. Encourage small, realistic steps—like taking short breaks away from screens or finding a quiet space to reset. And if your company has wellness resources, advocate for their use. Make them feel they’re not navigating this alone; they have a teammate.