Microdosing Your Mental Health: The Burnout Edition
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These prompts work best when delivered without judgment, without trying to immediately solve the problem, and with a genuine willingness to listen.
Jouranlists
For Journalists to Approach an Editor About Feeling Overwhelmed
Workload Conversation
- “I’d like to talk about my current workload. I’m finding it difficult to manage everything effectively right now, and I’d appreciate discussing priorities and where adjustments might be possible.”
Capacity Check-In
- “I want to be proactive and let you know that I’m feeling stretched pretty thin at the moment. Can we talk about what is most essential and whether there are opportunities to redistribute or delay some work?”
After a Difficult Assignment
- “Covering this story has had a greater impact on me than I anticipated. I’d like to discuss what support or recovery time might look like while ensuring the work continues to be covered responsibly.”
Preventing Burnout
- “I care deeply about producing strong work, but I’m concerned that my current pace isn’t sustainable. I’d like to explore ways to manage my responsibilities so I can continue performing at my best.”
Colleagues
For Colleagues Checking on Someone Who Might Be Overwhelmed
Open-Ended Check-In
- “I’ve noticed you’ve been carrying a lot lately. How are you doing, and is there anything you’d like to talk through?”
Support-Focused Question
- “You don’t have to handle everything alone. Is there anything I can help with right now, even if it’s just listening?”
Observational Approach
- “I’ve noticed you’ve seemed more stressed than usual recently. I wanted to check in and see how you’re doing.”
Permission to Be Honest
- “We spend a lot of time asking questions of other people, but not always of ourselves. How are you really doing these days?”
Follow-Up Questions (for Colleagues)
- What’s been weighing on you the most lately?
- What would make this week feel more manageable?
- Have you had a chance to take a break or step away recently?
- What kind of support would be most helpful right now?
- These prompts work best when delivered without judgment, without trying to immediately solve the problem, and with a genuine willingness to listen.
