What is workplace burnout?
Burnout happens when ongoing workplace stress leads to exhaustion, detachment from work, frequent negativity and self-doubt, or a decline in performance.
A recent study found that 66% of employees have experienced job burnout, affecting not just productivity but their physical and mental health.[1] Yet despite the serious toll burnout takes, many hesitate to take the time they need to care for themselves — even when options like mental health leaves of absence are available.
For providers, helping patients understand their options and feel supported in taking leave can make a real difference in their long-term well-being. But just as important is prioritizing their own mental health. In health care alone, nearly half of physicians reported experiencing burnout in 2024.[2]
How can you help patients navigate mental health leave while maintaining your own well-being? Let’s explore what mental health leave entails, how to support patients in taking time away and ways to prevent burnout in your own life.
What is a mental health leave?
A mental health leave is protected time away from work that allows individuals to focus on their emotional well-being, seek treatment and heal.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, eligible individuals can take up to 12 weeks off under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), while some short-term disability plans may extend coverage beyond that.[3] The goal is to remove the immediate pressures of work so individuals can fully engage in their care or support a loved one.
Who can take a leave of absence for mental health?
Eligibility depends on the employer and on state and federal policies, but employees typically qualify if they:
- Need inpatient care or ongoing treatment for a mental health condition
- Have worked for an FMLA-covered employer for at least 12 months
- Meet eligibility criteria for FMLA, short-term disability or employer-sponsored leave
- Have medical documentation supporting their need for leave
- Care for a child, spouse or parent with a serious health or mental health condition
When should someone consider mental health leave?
Mental health leave may be necessary when stress, exhaustion or emotional distress make it increasingly difficult to function at work, manage daily responsibilities or maintain relationships.
Signs that someone might benefit from a mental health leave include:
- Difficulty focusing, staying motivated or making everyday decisions
- Ongoing anxiety, stress or depression that doesn’t improve with rest
- Chronic exhaustion or disrupted sleep, even when trying to rest
- Frequent headaches, muscle tension or digestive issues
- Feeling emotionally drained, detached or losing interest in activities they enjoy
For some, these challenges can develop slowly and feel like a normal part of life, especially for those managing high-functioning anxiety or high-functioning depression. For others, persistent stress can worsen symptoms more quickly, particularly for those with mood disorders or trauma-related conditions like PTSD, making it harder to cope.
No one should have to reach a breaking point before seeking help. If you recognize these signs in a patient, encouraging additional support early can make a meaningful difference — and help prevent more serious mental health challenges in the future.
Supporting patients through mental health leave
Deciding to take a leave of absence for mental health is just the first step. Many patients struggle with what that actually looks like — how to navigate the process, communicate with their employer and structure their time away.
As a provider, you can help by walking them through their options, setting realistic expectations and offering reassurance along the way.
Help them understand their options.
Many people don’t realize they may qualify for leave. Talking with them about FMLA, short-term disability or employer-sponsored leave policies can help them feel more confident in making a decision.
Encourage them to check workplace policies.
Some companies offer paid leave, while others require employees to use vacation or sick days first. Advising them to talk to their human resources department about their options, paperwork and job protection can ease some stress about taking time off.
Support them in navigating employer conversations.
Patients don’t have to disclose details about their condition — only that they are taking leave for medical reasons. Encourage them to share only what feels comfortable and remind them that they have a right to privacy. If they anticipate needing accommodations when they return, you can help them think through how to communicate those needs.
Discuss realistic expectations for leave.
Some patients may feel pressure to “fix” everything while they’re away, while others may struggle with a lack of structure. Let them know that the goal of leave is healing — not productivity — and work with them to outline a plan that balances treatment and rest.
Reinforce the importance of staying connected.
Time away from work doesn’t mean going through the process alone. Discuss the importance of staying connected through therapy, support groups, or trusted friends and family.
Plan for a smooth transition back.
Returning to work can feel overwhelming to some patients. You can help them explore options like a phased return, workplace accommodations or strategies to maintain their progress.
By providing guidance and normalizing the process, you can help patients feel more confident in taking the time they need while minimizing added stress or uncertainty.
Five ways providers can prevent their own burnout
Providers spend so much time helping others that their own well-being can be easy to overlook. Burnout doesn’t happen overnight — it develops slowly, often showing up as exhaustion, frustration or a growing disconnect from the work you once valued.
Paying attention to early signs and making small changes can help protect your mental health. Here are five steps that can make a lasting difference.
1. Set real boundaries around work.
It can be easy to take on more than you can handle, but ignoring the signs of stress or exhaustion only makes burnout worse. Define your limits, whether that means setting strict work hours, saying no to extra responsibilities or blocking out time for yourself.
2. Take breaks before you need them.
Waiting until you’re completely drained makes recovery harder. Whether it’s a short pause between sessions or scheduling regular time off, give yourself space to rest and recharge.
3. Stay connected to people who understand.
Burnout can feel overwhelming and isolating without support. Leaning on colleagues, mentors or trusted loved ones can help you process the emotional demands of your role and remind you that you are not alone.
4. Do what you love outside of work.
Making time for activities that you enjoy, whether that’s exercise, a creative hobby or spending time with people you love, can help prevent emotional exhaustion and create balance beyond your job.
5. Recognize when you need your own support.
Just because you’re a provider doesn’t mean you have to handle everything alone. If you notice yourself struggling, therapy or other professional support can provide the space to process what you’re going through, work through challenges and find a sustainable path forward in both your work and well-being.
Comprehensive care for burnout and beyond
Burnout affects mental, physical and professional well-being, yet many people don’t recognize the signs until stress, depression or other challenges start interfering with work and life. With 76% of U.S. workers experiencing mental health symptoms — many tied to workplace stress — knowing when to seek support can make a life-changing difference.
Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center treats all mood and anxiety disorders at every level of care, with both in-person and virtual treatment available. Leading experts in behavioral health create personalized plans grounded in proven methods to accelerate your patient’s path to healing — whether that means treatment alongside work or time away to focus on recovery.
And remember, as you guide patients through this process, your well-being matters too. Reach out today for a free assessment or call us at 866-622-5914 to learn how our personalized treatment plans support you and your patients. One conversation can be the first step toward lasting change.
