Dyslexic Burnout - How To Deal With It

For many of us, this time of year is jam-packed with demands from every direction. Work, family, and life commitments can feel like a juggling act that never ends. In this week’s episode, we tackle something that’s often overlooked: Dyslexic Burnout.

We explore what it is, why it’s so common, and how to spot it before it knocks you over. The episode also offers practical tips for easing that heavy feeling of mental and emotional exhaustion. As dyslexics, we often focus on reading and spelling challenges, but there's far more beneath the surface—especially when stress and overwhelm join the mix. Below is a quick look at the discussion, plus some friendly tips to keep you moving forward.

What Is Dyslexic Burnout?

Burnout happens when your mind and body say, “Enough.” It's that state of utter exhaustion even a full night’s sleep can’t fix. You may feel frazzled, unable to concentrate, and fed up with constant demands.

Dyslexia can turn up the volume on everyday stress. When you’re juggling tasks that don’t come naturally—like traditional organisation or time management—it’s easy to reach a breaking point. That extra mental effort can deplete your energy reserves, leaving you feeling like you’re constantly running on fumes.

It’s not just about reading or spelling either. Dyslexic Burnout also affects self-confidence and overall well-being. Avoiding tasks you find difficult might lead you to procrastinate or withdraw. This can create a vicious cycle where undone tasks pile up and feed the burnout further.

Signs You’re Heading Toward Burnout

Sometimes it’s obvious you’re burned out; other times it sneaks up on you. Paying attention to small warning signs can help you step on the brakes before the wheels come off.

You might notice:

• Struggling to focus on tasks you usually manage
• A persistent feeling of being “behind” at work or home
• Increased anxiety about making mistakes
• Decision fatigue—small choices feel big and taxing
• Constant low mood or irritability

If you’ve felt any of these symptoms creeping in, take a breath. You’re not alone. In the podcast, I mentioned a common thread:

“We can easily stumble into Dyslexic Burnout if we keep saying ‘yes’ to everything without giving ourselves the space to recharge.”

Stepping back to rest or reassess your load might just be the reset button you need. Over-committing is not a badge of honour, and your mental health deserves a break now and then.

How to Combat Dyslexic Burnout

The good news is, there are ways to steer clear of full-blown burnout. It starts with acknowledging it’s happening, or that it could soon happen, and giving yourself permission to make changes.

Try these ideas:

• Take Small Breaks: You don’t need a full day off to unwind. Five minutes of mindfulness, a short walk, or even sipping tea quietly can reset your brain.
• Use Tools That Work for You: There’s no shame in using text-to-speech apps, planners, or any software that simplifies daily tasks. Efficient systems can remove a lot of mental strain.
• Delegate Where Possible: Ask colleagues or family members to share the load. Spreading tasks across more people can lighten your mental and emotional burden.
• Create Realistic Schedules: Complete a few tasks well rather than juggling everything. Set smaller targets to avoid overwhelm and celebrate the little wins.
• Check Your Perspective: Recognise that you don't have to fix everything at once. Focusing on one priority at a time helps keep your thoughts clear and calm.

When you approach tasks with a plan that fits your dyslexic thinking style, burnout feels much more manageable. Everyone’s pace is unique; honour your own rhythm to stay productive and balanced.

Building Better Routines

Part of preventing Dyslexic Burnout is revamping routines to work with, not against, your natural style. Traditional “to-do” lists might feel overwhelming if they’re too long or written in a way that doesn’t resonate with you.

Consider trying a different approach. For instance, our new mini-course, The To Do List For Dyslexics, provides simple strategies to organise tasks without sending your brain into overload. Breaking items into easy sections or playful categories can make it feel less daunting.

Remember that personal check-ins should be part of your routine. Every morning, ask yourself: “How’s my mental fuel gauge?” If it’s low, find a small way to recharge. Yoga, journalling, or just gazing out the window can help you recenter. There’s no magic bullet, but small and consistent self-care steps make a huge difference.

Looking for more support? You can share your experiences, challenges, and breakthroughs in our private Facebook community. Talking to others who get it can remind you that you’re not on this journey alone.

• Want to be on the podcast and share your story?
• Get on the waiting list for our next course to build confidence
• Subscribe on YouTube to watch “My Dyslexic Life”

A Few Quick Takeaways

• Burnout is a sign your energy reserves are running on empty
• Small breaks and supportive tools can prevent mental overload
• Sharing the load and saying “no” occasionally is healthy
• Your dyslexia needs respect and care just like any other aspect of health

If you’d like to dive deeper into this topic and hear more about avoiding that crushing wave of exhaustion, be sure to listen to the full episode. You’ll discover more tips, insights, and real-world experiences that can help you thrive just as you are. Give it a go and find a gentler path forward.