Stress, Anxiety, Burnout: Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between stress and burnout? . . .

Stress is the body’s natural response to pressure or challenge. We need a bit of stress to perform and tackle challenges. It can be motivating. But chronic, unrelieved stress can lead to burnout. There are several stages of burnout, as noted in research such as Nick Petrie’s work. Burnout occurs when stress becomes constant, leaving you emotionally, mentally, and physically depleted. Coaching provides a safe, confidential, and professional space to pause, reflect, and explore what’s really going on.

How can coaching help with stress? . . .

Coaching gives you a confidential space to pause, reflect, and explore healthier ways of working and living. Through somatic practices, mindset work, and practical tools, you can reduce reactivity, manage pressure more effectively, and build resilience.

I’ve tried self-care and time off, but I still feel exhausted. Can coaching help? . . .

Often yes. While rest and self-care matter, lasting change usually requires a deeper reset. Coaching helps you explore what’s happening beneath the surface, consider boundaries, values, and systemic issues, and identify where you do and don’t have influence. For many caring and responsible professionals, this prevents carrying more than is sustainable over the long term.

Can coaching support my leadership role and help deal with difficult feelings of stress and anxiety?. . .

Yes, with some caveats. Coaching is not therapy, nor is it a substitute for medical or psychological treatment. That said, leaders under pressure often feel responsible for holding everything together. Coaching offers a safe, trusted space to think out loud, explore challenges, and regain agency. Simply talking things through can create fresh insight and support you to lead with presence and authenticity.

How do I know if I need coaching for stress? . . .

You may benefit if you:

Feel constantly “on” and can’t switch off Notice stress affecting your sleep, focus, or health Feel reactive, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your values Are considering leaving a role because of the stress

I won't ever tell you what to do, that's not what coaching is, but we will explore your thoughts, experiences, feelings, values and realisitic options so you can make choices that feel grounded and sustainable.

Is coaching the same as therapy for stress?. . .

No. Coaching is not therapy nor is it diagnostic. Therapy often focuses on healing past wounds and clinical symptoms. Coaching focuses on where you are now and how to move forward with greater resilience, clarity, and self-awareness. Many clients find coaching complements therapy or other wellbeing practices.