10 Things Burnt Out Artists Say (And What They Really Mean)
Creative people are excellent communicators. We write, paint, perform, produce, design, and express. But when it comes to talking about burnout? We get… cryptic. Mysterious, even. Overwhelmed artists are experts at masking stress with humour, deflection, or casual phrases that sound fine—until you dig a little deeper.
At Hey Mate, we work with hundreds of artists, arts workers, and creatives across Australia. We’ve heard every version of “I’m fine” in the book. So here’s a lighthearted but truthful breakdown of 10 things burnt out artists often say—and what they really mean underneath. If you’ve said (or heard) any of these lately, it might be time for a rest, a chat, or a Hey Mate check-in.
1.
“I’m just taking a little break from my practice.”
What they really mean:
I haven’t touched my art in months and I feel guilty about it but I’m too exhausted to start again.
Wellbeing tip:
Creative breaks are healthy. But if your “little break” feels like a loss of identity or motivation, that’s a sign of burnout—not a lack of discipline. Start with something low-pressure. Make for joy, not outcome.
2.
“It’s fine. I’ll sleep when the tour’s over.”
What they really mean:
I am running on fumes, adrenaline, and vending machine snacks. Please hold me.
Wellbeing tip:
Sleep deprivation is not a badge of honour. The Support Act Mental Health Evaluation Report found that burnout and exhaustion were the top mental health issues affecting creative workers. You are allowed to sleep during the work—not just after.
3.
“I’ve just got a few projects on at the moment.”
What they really mean:
I am dangerously close to losing my calendar, my mind, and my laptop charger all at once.
Wellbeing tip:
Doing too many things at once is a burnout accelerant. Your capacity is not a productivity tool. Try listing your top three priorities and practice saying “Not right now” to the rest.
4.
“Yeah it’s been hectic but I’m lucky to be working.”
What they really mean:
I am drowning but feel guilty complaining because at least I have gigs.
Wellbeing tip:
You can be grateful and overwhelmed. Both can be true. Burnout often hides behind gratitude in the arts. You deserve rest without needing to justify it.
5.
“I just need to get through this next week/month/show.”
What they really mean:
I’ve been saying this every month for a year and I don’t know how to stop.
Wellbeing tip:
Burnout thrives in long-haul survival mode. If you are constantly “getting through,” something needs to shift. Rest is not what happens when it’s all done. It’s what keeps you going.
6.
“I’m not really vibing with my work right now.”
What they really mean:
I feel emotionally disconnected from my creativity and I’m scared I’ve lost it.
Wellbeing tip:
Creative disconnection is a common symptom of burnout. You haven’t lost your creativity—it just needs recovery time. Try switching mediums, playing, or collaborating with someone who fills your cup.
7.
“Sorry, I just totally forgot to reply!”
What they really mean:
My inbox is a black hole and executive functioning is a distant memory.
Wellbeing tip:
Forgetfulness, procrastination, and avoidance are all burnout behaviours. If your brain feels foggy, give it breaks. Not more pressure. And if you’re on the receiving end? Extend kindness.
8.
“Oh no I’m fine, just a bit tired.”
What they really mean:
I am existentially, emotionally, spiritually, and professionally cooked. But I don’t know how to talk about it.
Wellbeing tip:
Tiredness is often used to downplay distress. If “just tired” is your default answer, ask yourself what else might be going on. Talk to a mate or mental health professional who gets creative industry life.
9.
“It’s not forever. It’s just the hustle.”
What they really mean:
I’ve been normalising overwork for so long I don’t even question it anymore.
Wellbeing tip:
The hustle culture lie tells artists we have to grind now to earn rest later. But if later never comes, you burn out before the payoff. Make recovery part of your daily rhythm—not a delayed reward.
10.
“I’m all good!”
What they really mean:
I am absolutely not all good, but I don’t want to be a burden.
Wellbeing tip:
Artists are great at putting on a show, even offstage. But real strength is being honest. If you are not all good, tell someone. You don’t have to carry it alone.
If You Recognised Yourself in Any of These…
You’re not broken. You’re just burnt out. The creative industries can be relentless—and many artists and arts workers have internalised the idea that exhaustion is part of the job. But it doesn’t have to be.
At Hey Mate, we support creatives like you through burnout recovery, peer support, and mental health services designed for the unique pressures of the industry. Whether you need someone to talk to, want to book a wellbeing workshop for your team, or just need a sign to rest—this is it.
Need support that gets it?
Visit the Hey Mate Creative Wellbeing Hub to access free tools and book sessions with industry-aligned mental health professionals.
Feeling Seen?
Share this with a creative mate, follow us on socials, and stay connected for more real talk on creative recovery and artist wellbeing.
