How to Manage Stress Addiction After Burnout

A friend and I were talking recently about our complicated relationship with work - and, more specifically, with stress. He brought up an interesting point. For some of us, stress isn’t just something we endure. It’s also something we seek out, even when we know it’s unhealthy.

I understood exactly what he meant because I’ve been there. For years, I worked in high-intensity operational roles in a fast-paced industry. My phone was practically glued to my hand. I’d wake up and immediately check my emails to gauge the day’s challenges. A handful of emails meant things were fine; more than that, and the adrenaline would kick in.

If I saw a missed call, I’d bolt out of bed, heart racing, ready to firefight. Evenings? They didn’t exist. I’d be answering emails until well past 10 p.m., and weekends were just another workday. My phone was always on, never silent. It drained me. Yet, I thrived on the sense of urgency. I appreciated the camaraderie of the team. I enjoyed the feeling that I was doing something that mattered.

Then, inevitably, burnout hit. Hard.

The Fallout: Boredom After Burnout

Burnout forced me to step away from that high-pressure environment and into a low-stress role. At first, it was a relief. No late-night emails, no adrenaline spikes, no constant urgency. But over time, something unexpected happened – I got bored.

I felt like I wasn’t adding value or making an impact. I missed the stimulation of problem-solving under pressure. I also missed the sense of purpose that came from being in the thick of it. And I started wondering: Why does a healthy, balanced environment feel so unfulfilling? Am I addicted to stress?

Why Stress Feels Addictive

Turns out, there’s science behind this. Stress triggers the release of cortisol and adrenaline, preparing your body for action. In the short term, this can feel exhilarating. But over time, your body gets used to this heightened state, and you start craving the rush – even when it’s harmful.

The American Psychological Association conducted a survey in 2017. It found that “constant checkers” – people who habitually check emails, texts, and social media—report significantly higher stress levels. These levels are higher compared to those who don’t constantly check. This isn’t just about work; it’s about the physiological addiction to always being “on.”

For people like me, who might be neurodivergent or thrive on variety, the shift to a low-stress environment can feel flat. It can even feel lifeless. When you’ve spent years chasing fires, the absence of flames feels like there’s nothing to do.

When “Healthy” Feels Like Stagnation

Here’s where things get tricky. Sometimes, boredom is just your brain adjusting to a new, healthier pace. But sometimes, it’s a sign that the role you’re in doesn’t align with your skills or values.

So how do you tell the difference?

Questions to Ask Yourself:

1. Am I Engaged?
   Does the work challenge you or excite you? Or does it feel repetitive and uninspiring?
2. Does It Feel Meaningful?
   Are you contributing to something bigger, or do your tasks feel disconnected from your purpose?
3. Am I Growing?
   Is this job helping you develop skills or move toward your goals? Or do you feel stuck?
4. Am I Restless, or Am I Healing?
   Is the boredom coming from a lack of stimulation, or are you still recovering from burnout?

Finding the Right Balance

After my burnout, I realized that the answer isn’t swinging from one extreme to the other. It’s about finding a middle ground – a role or a lifestyle that offers stimulation and purpose without sacrificing your well-being.

Here’s what worked for me, along with evidence-backed tips you might find helpful:

1. Set Boundaries with Technology
   Turn off non-essential notifications and set specific times for checking emails.
   Consider a tech-free hour before bed to decompress.
   A 2017 APA study found that reduced screen time significantly lowers stress levels. Small changes can make a big difference.
2. Diversify Your Sources of Fulfillment
   Explore hobbies or side projects that excite you.
   Volunteer or join a group that aligns with your values.
   Finding purpose outside of work can help you balance the need for stimulation with the need for rest.
3. Reframe Your Mindset About Boredom
   Boredom isn’t always bad. It can signal that you’re ready for more—or that you need to lean into rest.
   Journaling or mindfulness can help you explore what boredom is telling you.
4. Embrace Holistic Growth
   Personal and professional development go hand in hand. Practices like meditation and reflection can increase self-awareness and help you make better choices.

The Takeaway

Stress can feel addictive because it gives you a sense of purpose, urgency, and connection. But it’s a double-edged sword – too much of it, and you’ll burn out. Too little, and you might feel unfulfilled.

The challenge is finding that sweet spot where you feel engaged, valued, and healthy. You might need to adjust your job. It could also involve setting boundaries or finding fulfilment outside of work. The key is to listen to what your body and mind are telling you.

For me, that meant letting go of the belief that my job had to provide all my stimulation and fulfilment. Sometimes, the healthiest thing you can do is diversify where you find meaning. Give yourself permission to seek balance, not perfection.

If you’re navigating burnout, boredom, or both, I hope this resonates. You’re not alone – and there’s a way through it.