BURNOUT

Prevention & Care

Burnout occurs when the pressures of the external world and the unresolved places in our inner world disconnect us from the Source of life. (2 Corinthians 4:1,16-18)

Please note, The information contained in these resources is not meant to replace diagnosis or treatment of burnout or depression by a qualified practitioner. We highly recommend that you seek the advice of a doctor or licensed counselor if you are experiencing symptoms of burnout or depression.

According to Barna in the State of Pastors report, 1 in 3 pastors (33%) are at risk for burnout and 46% have experienced depression. People who burnout are at increased risk for moral failure, leaving ministry and developing debilitating depression or anxiety.

Exhausted pastor sitting alone, showing signs of ministry burnout and emotional fatigue</p>
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Tired pastor in quiet reflection, facing burnout and seeking renewal in ministry</p>
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Tired pastor in quiet reflection, facing burnout and seeking renewal in ministry</p>
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This results in having great difficulty functioning.  Read a more detailed blog post about what burnout actually is and how to detect symptoms of burnout in your own life and ministry.

Burnout is complicated. Recovery requires a multifaceted approach, is not always linear and often feels chaotic.

Overwhelmed pastor in a moment of silence, experiencing ministry stress and burnout</p>
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Tired pastor in quiet reflection, facing burnout and seeking renewal in ministry</p>
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Pastor resting quietly, worn out from ministry demands and seeking renewal</p>
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Inner issues are more difficult to identify and require changes in values, beliefs, roles, relationships and approaches to life and work. ‘Solutions’ take a long time to implement because we are making changes in habits and patterns of behaving that are automatic
(Growing Intimacy with God retreat/group and Unfinished Business groups help you address some of these issues.)

Burning out once doesn’t mean it won’t happen again. In fact, without intentional rest and healthy rhythms, you may be even more vulnerable to future burnout. Recovery requires more than just a break—it calls for ongoing soul care, support, and boundaries that protect your well-being and keep you connected to God’s sustaining presence.

Pastor experiencing ministry burnout, sitting alone in exhaustion and quiet reflection</p>
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Tired pastor in quiet reflection, facing burnout and seeking renewal in ministry</p>
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Weary pastor alone in a quiet space, reflecting the emotional weight of ministry burnout</p>
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Burning out is one of those ‘wall’ experiences that God allows us to go through. He does not mean it for harm but rather for good. If we cooperate, he will refine and transform us into the likeness of Christ. We will be better leaders and the churches and organizations we lead will be healthier.

Burnout Resources

Burnout Self Assessment

Take this burnout questionnaire to see if you are burning out.

Symptoms

Are you familiar with the symptoms of burnout? Use this checklist to see how many symptoms you may be experiencing.

What's On Your Plate?

This helpful appraisal will allow you to critically look at at your current responsibilities.

Keeping Your Tank Filled

What fuels your tank? Use this graphic to discover activities that are life-giving, specifically to you.

Building Blocks

This assessment will help you cultivate a resilient life.

Stress Management

Learn about the AAABC’s of stress management.

Core Values

Discover your core values and see why they are important.

Core Values Priorities

This chart allows you to prioritize your core values.

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