Brain Health & Burnout: What My Brain Scan Taught Me About Pushing Too Hard
- trippparks1
- May 13
- 3 min read
Burnout isn't just about being tired.It’s about your brain giving you a warning sign that something has to change.
Recently, I had a brain scan that revealed I’m in Stage 2 burnout — with clear neurological markers showing my brain has been under sustained stress. The scan also showed some Autistic & ADHD tendencies, which suddenly made a lot of my past experiences click. And to be honest... I’m exhausted.
But I’m not sharing this for sympathy. I’m sharing this because I know I’m not alone.
What is Burnout — Really?
Burnout isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a neurophysiological state where your brain and body can no longer keep up with the demands being placed on them.
According to the World Health Organization, burnout is classified as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It’s marked by:
Mental and physical exhaustion
Detachment or negativity toward work
Reduced performance and motivation
But here’s what most people don’t realize: burnout actually changes your brain.
Chronic stress affects your prefrontal cortex, impacting decision-making, focus, and memory. It also over-activates the amygdala — the part of your brain responsible for fear and emotional regulation. In advanced stages, burnout can disrupt sleep, digestion, hormone balance, and immune function.
This study shows that prolonged stress shrinks gray matter volume in key areas of the brain tied to self-regulation and cognition.
When Autism & Burnout Collide
For those of us with autistic traits or neurodivergent brains, burnout can hit even harder. Constantly masking, adapting to high sensory input, or managing emotional regulation takes a neurological toll over time.
I used to think I was just "wired differently." But now I know I’ve been pushing through without the tools or support I really needed.
The result? Emotional flatlining. Low-grade depression. Foggy thinking. Physical pain.It’s not weakness. It’s a neurological red flag.
How I'm Fighting Back (and How You Can Too)
Here’s what I’m doing now — and what I recommend for anyone facing brain-based burnout:
1. Cut the Noise
→ Say “no” more often. Prioritize what matters.→ Protect your mental bandwidth like it’s gold — because it is.
2. Fuel Your Brain
→ Focus on omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and magnesium.→ Stay hydrated. Eat whole foods. Limit sugar and alcohol.→ Here’s a helpful guide on nutrition for brain health.
3. Move with Intention
→ Exercise boosts BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which helps rebuild brain cells.→ Even light movement, breathwork, or low-impact strength training can change your brain chemistry.
4. Unplug. Recharge. Repeat.
→ Sleep is non-negotiable.→ Meditation, nature walks, journaling, or even short "think breaks" can reset the brain.
5. Talk About It
→ You’re not weak for feeling this way.→ Burnout thrives in silence. Healing starts when we acknowledge it out loud.
🎧 Need support or motivation? Check out my podcast, Health or High Water, where we tackle real stories around resilience, mental health, and wellness without the fluff.
Final Thoughts
Burnout doesn’t mean you’ve failed.It means you’ve been strong for too long without a break.
If you’re reading this and thinking, “This sounds like me,” you’re not alone — and there are tools to rebuild. Brain health isn’t something we should take lightly, and I’m learning that firsthand.
If you’re struggling, reach out. DM me. Message someone you trust.And most importantly, give yourself permission to heal.
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Want to get your brain scanned yourself? Check out Brigh Wave based out of Colorado. That's where I got my brain scanned!
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