Experiencing burnout twice: Patricia shares her story

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‘I lived from holiday to holiday’

Patricia, a client of acupuncturist Katinka van Duijn openly shares how she recognized the signs of a previous burnout, why she chose acupuncture, and what these treatments have brought her.

Which signs of overload did you recognize in yourself?
Patricia: 'This is my second burnout, so I recognized the signs more quickly and fortunately my family also pointed them out to me. I slept poorly, woke up multiple times at night with thoughts like: 'Oh, I must not forget that' or 'Did I do that?'
I made little time for friends, and when I did, I could enjoy it less. Concentrating was hardly possible, after three pages in a book, I would grab my phone again. I lived from holiday to holiday. But the most characteristic was the feeling of total exhaustion. Having no energy left, for anything really.'

When did you realize it was more than just 'being tired'?
'After many conversations with my husband about how things were going in the wrong direction. Together, we took stock of everything I was doing, and it was a lot. The low point came when I wanted to hug my colleague when she returned from vacation. The tears were flowing. That's when all the alarm bells really went off for me.'

What drew you to acupuncture?
'I believe in the power of humans and in natural medicine. Everything that can be solved in that way is the first step for me. Only if that doesn't work, do we look further into 'conventional' medicine.'

How did the first treatments go?
'I have been a client of Katinka van Duijn for years, so honestly, I don't remember exactly how the first treatments were. What I do know: Katinka always listens, gives good advice but never imposes anything.'

What changes have you noticed, for example in energy, sleep, mood, or focus?
'On the day of the treatment, I am always very tired. That night I also sleep deeply, and that effect lasts for a while. Over time, it diminishes slightly, so I have an appointment cycle of about four weeks. This way, my energy gradually returns, along with my mood and focus.'

Did that happen gradually or suddenly?
'Gradually. Just as you don't become overwhelmed overnight, it also takes time to rebalance. It requires maintenance.'

Have you combined acupuncture with other therapies or guidance?
'Yes, I also receive guidance from a psychologist to address behavioral changes. To learn where things go wrong and what I can do about it.'

How do they complement each other?
'It fits together nicely: acupuncture helps me recharge physically and energetically, and the conversations with the psychologist help me understand and break my patterns.'

What has the process taught you about dealing with stress and setting boundaries?
'Some things are in your DNA, you don't change them within a few weeks. It takes time and practice. Acupuncture helps me with that by maintaining my energy balance and reserves.'

What would you say to someone considering trying acupuncture for burnout symptoms?
'Definitely go for it! It gives you insight into your own body. And especially Katinka can point out things you wouldn't think of yourself, like nutrition or herbs.'

What insight do you take from this experience?
'The body and nature have an enormous power to heal themselves. You just have to be open to it. Burnout can happen to anyone, even a second time. But you can experience the second one more mildly, or even prevent it, by regularly visiting the acupuncturist for a kind of 'maintenance' and by listening carefully to your acupuncturist's advice. As a result, my current burnout is much less severe than the first.'

More stories during the Acupuncture Week
This interview is part of the Acupuncture Week, which this year focuses on burnout. During this week, we share various conversations with acupuncturists and clients about how they view recovery from both physical and mental exhaustion from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Also, read the other interviews and be inspired by stories from acupuncturists and their clients about recovery and balance.

Want to know if acupuncture is right for you?
Feel free to contact NVA-acupuncturist Katinka van Duijn or find an NVA-acupuncturist near you.