Struggling with stress in the NHS? Discover practical ways to recover from burnout, boost morale, and find balance again—starting with small lifestyle changes.
Burnout isn’t just a buzzword. For NHS staff, it’s a lived reality—one that can take a serious toll on your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.
This guide is here to help. If you’ve been wondering how to cope with burnout, or you’re supporting someone who is, we’ve put together practical tools, tips, and encouragement.
Plus, we’ll show you how small lifestyle changes—like spending more time doing things you love—can go a long way in reducing burnout in the workplace.
NHS burnout refers to a state of physical and emotional exhaustion often caused by prolonged periods of stress, overwork, and emotional strain.
For healthcare workers, it’s not just about feeling tired—it’s about feeling disconnected from the work you once felt passionate about.
Left unaddressed, burnout can lead to absenteeism, mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, and ultimately, staff leaving the profession entirely. That’s why finding ways to manage stress in the NHS isn’t just important,— it’s vital.
Burnout in the NHS doesn’t always look dramatic. Sometimes it’s subtle: a colleague who used to smile, now quiet and withdrawn. Other times it’s visible in high staff turnover or low morale on the ward. When everyday stress becomes a constant, the effects ripple out across teams.
From long shifts and under-resourced wards to the emotional weight of patient care, NHS burnout is increasingly common—and increasingly serious.
The numbers paint a tough picture. Demand continues to rise, yet staff numbers and funding remain stretched. Healthcare workers are often working overtime, picking up extra shifts, and absorbing the emotional load of caring for others, often without enough time to care for themselves.
It’s not surprising that NHS staff morale is under strain. According to the NHS Staff Survey, one in three NHS workers report feeling burned out by their work.
Burnout doesn’t always shout—it often whispers. Spotting the early signs can help you take action before things spiral.
Burnout shows up in different ways. Some common symptoms include:
These symptoms are your body and mind’s way of saying: something needs to change.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed for more than a few weeks—or if your symptoms are affecting your daily life—it’s important to reach out. This could be through your NHS Trust’s occupational health team, your GP, or mental health charities like Mental Health UK.
Asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength. You deserve support just as much as the people you care for.
Beating burnout isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about consistent, everyday care. Here are some practical steps to help you protect your energy and wellbeing.
Taking a proper break isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. Whether it’s 30 minutes to eat lunch without interruption, or using your annual leave to truly switch off, these pauses are what help you reset. Boundaries protect your time and energy, both at work and home.
Yes, we know—you’ve heard it all before. But the basics really do matter. Good sleep, regular meals, and light movement (even a short walk) help regulate stress hormones and boost your mood.
Not sure where to start? Aim for consistency over perfection. Something is better than nothing.
Don’t bottle it up. Talking to someone you trust—whether it’s a colleague, friend, or professional—can help you feel seen and supported. Peer networks, supervision, or informal debriefs can also provide an outlet to process difficult days.
Burnout thrives in isolation. Make space for joy—whatever that means to you. Whether it’s a night out at the theatre, a live gig, or a comedy show that makes you belly-laugh, reconnecting with the things you love is powerful.
Many NHS Trusts now offer mental health and wellbeing resources, counselling, and even access to free or discounted activities. If you’re not sure what’s available, check with your wellbeing lead or HR team.
You can also sign up for Tickets for Good, which gives NHS staff access to free and discounted tickets for live events across the UK—from music and theatre to sport and comedy. It’s an easy way to reconnect with joy.
Modern healthcare is non-stop. But humans aren’t machines. You need rest—not just to recover, but to thrive. Switching off outside of work lets your nervous system relax, your thoughts settle, and your body recharge.
Research shows that regular social activities and time spent doing things you enjoy can significantly improve mental wellbeing and reduce feelings of burnout. Especially for NHS staff facing constant pressure, these moments of joy and connection are more than just a treat—they’re a lifeline.
Tickets for Good was created to say thank you. We believe everyone deserves moments of happiness, especially those who spend their lives helping others. That’s why we work with event organisers to offer free and heavily discounted tickets to NHS staff.
It’s more than just a night out. It’s about reducing burnout with live events, making space for joy, and reminding you that you’re not just a healthcare worker—you’re a person who deserves fun, connection, and community.
We know how to cope with burnout isn’t always clear, but small changes add up. Whether it’s dancing at a gig, laughing at a stand-up show, or cheering at a football match, these experiences can make a big difference to how you feel.
If you’re not yet a member, it’s free to join. Sign up here, and if your Trust isn’t listed, let us know.
Because looking after others starts with looking after yourself.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with your team or wellbeing lead. Together, we can help shift the culture—and bring a little more balance back to NHS life.