- John Cassian noted burnout symptoms like weariness, hopelessness, and brain fog in the 5th century, showing these feelings are not unique to modern times.
- Historian Peter Jones's book explores how medieval 'therapist priests' guided people through spiritual anguish, similar to modern therapy for burnout.
- Medieval writers described acedia (sloth) as an emotional void, akin to modern burnout, with symptoms like inertia and lack of motivation.
- Medieval solutions for acedia included accepting emotions without fighting them, finding a higher purpose, and practicing self-forgiveness.
- Modern therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy echo medieval advice, emphasizing acknowledging emotions and living by personal values.
- Recognizing that burnout has been experienced throughout history can provide comfort and a sense of shared human experience.