Summer burnout is the lingering exhaustion, irritability and loss of motivation that can build up during the summer months, usually when packed schedules, disrupted routines, heat and social pressure stack on top of work or caregiving demands. It isn't a formal medical diagnosis, but the burnout it describes is a real response to prolonged stress. The most useful first steps are to spot the signs early, reduce what you can, protect sleep and genuine rest, and talk to someone you trust. If it's affecting your daily life, talk to a doctor or therapist. Most people expect burnout after a brutal winter or a deadline-heavy quarter. Summer burnout catches many people off guard because summer is supposed to be the season of rest, vacations and sunshine. So when you're dragging yourself through each day, snapping at people you love, and struggling to enjoy things that normally make you happy, it feels confusing, even a little embarrassing. "How can I be burned out? It's ...