By Dr Donald Masi

“I’m just so tired.” It’s a phrase I hear regularly from patients, so often from people under 40 who should be enjoying their most energetic years.

This isn’t ordinary tiredness – it’s a deep, persistent exhaustion that’s physical, emotional and psychological. It’s burnout, underpinned by mental health challenges.

As a consultant psychiatrist at Priory, I support people who are overwhelmed and anxious. Increasingly, many have turned to unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Many are stuck in insecure jobs, burdened by high rents and rising costs, and pressured to “hustle” or “grind” constantly. Many are burdened by student loan debt, from degrees that offer no clear career pathways. Most are working extremely hard, yet feel they’re falling behind.

Burnout isn’t just about work – it’s about survival. Many young people are living month to month, with no financial cushion and little hope of owning a home. ‘Generation rent’ is saddled with uncertainties on their living circumstances in the........

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