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Persistent emotional exhaustion (feeling drained just thinking about your partner).
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Detachment (going through the motions without genuine connection).
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Reduced sense of accomplishment (feeling like you’re failing at marriage no matter how hard you try).
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Chronic stress that doesn’t resolve with rest or a date night.
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Feeling like roommates or co-parents rather than romantic partners.
The key difference: Burnout isn’t about conflict. It’s about depletion. You’re not fighting—you’re fading.
The Science of Burnout (Why It Happens)
Burnout was first studied in the workplace. Researchers identified three key components:
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Emotional exhaustion: Feeling drained, used up, and lacking energy.
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Depersonalization/detachment: Feeling disconnected, cynical, or indifferent.
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Reduced personal accomplishment: Feeling ineffective or unsuccessful.
These same components apply to marriage.
