Tales of Recovery

Burnout syndrome, was first defined in 1974 as a work-related condition characterized by three symptoms: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment. Since then there has been a large amount on the subject of burnout has been published. With various definitions.

In many understandings of “burnout” it is expected to be treatable as a physical condition. Preferably by methods aiming for relief, rest and relaxation. But whilst useful to alleviate symptoms, often when people return to work if the experience is then repeated they can find themselves in ‘Habitual Burnout.’ This is when Burnout steals our sense of control and agency— and we feel completely stuck and unable to effect change.

A psychoanalytic way of understanding this is that Burnout can also be related to our internalized parents, moral convictions, and sense of duty. As such Burnout can become linked to what in stories is called the Death Mother Archetype.

The NHS is sometimes referred to as a kind of mother. She also is a mother suffocated by chronic chaos, ever increasing expectations of quality of care and relentless shifting political demands. Making it impossible for her to function the way her potential might suggest she is capable of.

“Death Mother is born out of despair. It is incubated by the crushed hope of an unlived life. Death Mother is the shadow side of disappointment. When you look into the eyes of death mother you see they are glazed over with hopelessness. You see a blank look; there is nobody at home. You see an unconscious, frozen and profoundly wounded body-psyche devoid of authentic feeling. You see somebody with desperate need to be in control. You see someone who is driven by will power.” ~ Marion Woodman

Tailored specifically for clinicians, this series explores ancient stories to facilitate reflection on the modern challenges of professional burnout in health care, providing a fresh and nourishing approach to self-care on the road to recovery.

Through a Jungian and Group Analytic perspective, we will delve into narratives that highlight the significance of self-discovery, balance, and the power of supportive relationships. These workshops aim to:

• Examine inner resistance and acknowledge the importance of self-care.
• Honor your need for creativity, care, and connection.
• Seek and cultivate support from your community.
• Offers a culturally rich experience

Workshop Series Overview:

Workshop 1: Snow White - The Mirror of Insight and Use of Reflection

Workshop 2: Rumpelstiltskin - Naming The Problem

Workshop 3: Hansel and Gretel - Killing the Witch

Workshop 4: Briar Rose - Castle of Rest

Workshop 5: Ugly Duckling - Magic of Community

Workshop 6: Water of Life - Integration

Event Details:

Duration: 6 Weeks, 90 minutes each session

Dates: Meeting weekly on Mondays. Begins 8th September 2025.

Time: 7pm - 8:30pm

Location: Zoom Platform

Who Should Attend: Health Care Clinicians experiencing or recovering from burnout

Cost: £185 for the whole series
Facilitator: Dr Libby Nugent