You're Not Alone: What Helped Me Begin Healing from Burnout and Depression

Recognizing the Struggle

In 2020, I stepped down as CEO of Conscious Company Media thinking I just needed time. By September, things had only worsened. I was finally diagnosed with clinical depression. After sending out a survey to fellow female business leaders that same year, I realized I wasn’t alone in struggling with grief, exhaustion, loneliness, and depression. Reading their responses helped me recognize my own struggle.

If you’re feeling like this too—anxious, uninspired, overwhelmed, exhausted—you are not alone.

5 Things That Helped Me Begin Healing

1. Seek Help

I put off therapy for years because it felt like too much effort. But taking that first step to consistently work with a professional has been a lifeline. Help can look different for everyone—find what works for you and reach out.

2. Replace Toxic Inputs With Positive Ones

I realized I always felt worse after scrolling social media or doom-scrolling the news. I’ve learned to consciously replace those moments with activities that nourish me: cooking, writing postcards, listening to TED Talks, going for walks, or decluttering while listening to uplifting podcasts.

3. Relentlessly Pursue Tiny Improvements

Perfectionism keeps us trapped. I stopped focusing on big results and instead celebrated tiny wins: folding laundry, answering five emails, cooking a meal, or taking a five-minute walk. Small steps create momentum.

4. Define “Enough”

As an entrepreneur, I always chased growth. Now I’ve defined what "enough" looks like to meet my needs. When I hit that number, I’m giving myself permission to stop striving and focus on healing.

5. Tap Into Gratitude

Gratitude can feel hard, but it makes a real difference. I find small daily moments to appreciate: a warm shower, a good meal, or sharing what I’m thankful for with my partner before bed.

You’re Not Alone

I know how isolating depression and burnout can feel. It wasn’t until I heard others share their stories that I felt ready to take the first step toward healing.

If this resonates, know you’re not alone. I hope my experience offers comfort and inspires you to begin your own journey.

Key Takeaways

• You are not alone if you’re feeling exhausted, anxious, or uninspired.

• Getting professional help can be a game-changer.

• Replace negative inputs with nourishing activities.

• Celebrate small wins instead of chasing perfection.

• Define “enough” and give yourself space to heal.