Resignation Letter Due to Burnout: How to Write It and When to Use It

Lately, more and more people are considering resignation due to burnout. It’s a topic that hits home for many of us who have experienced it firsthand. Maybe you’re tired of being overworked without proper recognition or compensation. Or you may be feeling disconnected from your work and no longer finding fulfillment in it. Regardless of the reason, burnout is a serious issue that needs to be addressed.

If you’re feeling burnt out and considering writing a resignation letter, you’re not alone. Many others have gone through the same thing and have shared their resignation letter templates online. You can easily find examples and edit them as needed to fit your specific situation.

Whether you’re quitting your job to take a much-needed break or to pursue a new career path altogether, writing a resignation letter can be a daunting task. That’s why it’s important to approach it with the right mindset and tone. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about writing a resignation letter due to burnout.

So if you’re ready to take the next step and make a change in your career, keep reading. We’ve got you covered.

The Best Structure for Resignation Letter Due To Burnout

When it comes to resigning from a job due to burnout, it can be a difficult and emotional decision. However, it is important that you approach it in a professional and respectful manner. One of the ways to do this is by using the right structure for your resignation letter. Here are some tips on the best structure for your resignation letter due to burnout.

1. Start with a clear and concise opening. Begin your letter with a clear and concise opening that announces your resignation. You don’t have to go into too much detail at this point, but it’s important to make sure that your boss knows that you’re resigning.

For example, you can start with: “Dear [Boss’s Name], I am writing to inform you that I have decided to resign my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name].”

2. Express gratitude for the opportunities you had while working. After announcing your resignation, it’s important to express your gratitude for the opportunities you had while working with the company. Talk about the positive experiences and things you accomplished during your time there.

You could say something like: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunities and experiences I had while working with [Company Name]. During my tenure here, I was able to accomplish [Accomplishment]. I appreciate the support and guidance provided by my colleagues and superiors.”

3. Be honest about your reason for resigning In this section, be honest about your reason for resigning. You can explain that you’ve been experiencing burnout and that taking care of your mental health is a priority.

You may say: “Unfortunately, I have been experiencing burnout lately, and I need to prioritize my mental health to avoid further burnout. Therefore, I have made the difficult decision to resign from my position and move forward.”

4. Offer to help with the transition You can offer to help with the transition to make the process smoother for your boss and colleagues. This could include training someone to handle your tasks, assisting with finding a replacement, or completing certain projects before your departure.

You could say something like: “I am committed to making this transition as smooth as possible for everyone involved. Please let me know how I can assist in the handover process. I am happy to help train someone to take on my responsibilities or complete any outstanding projects.”

5. End with a positive note and stay professional End your resignation letter on a positive note and stay professional. Reiterate your appreciation for the company and offer your best wishes for its future success.

You may say: “I want to express my gratitude for the time I spent contributing to the success of [Company Name]. I leave with fond memories and experiences. I wish the organization continued success.”

In conclusion, a resignation letter due to burnout should have a clear and concise opening, express gratitude for the opportunities, be honest about your reason for leaving, offer to help with the transition, and end on a positive note. Following these steps will help you leave the company with respect and professionalism.

7 Resignation Letter Samples Due To Burnout

Sample Resignation Letter Due To Burnout 1: Personal Health Reasons

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with sadness that I tender my resignation, effective two weeks from today. Over the past few months, I have been struggling with my physical and emotional health, which I believe is attributed to burnout.

I have enjoyed working with you and the team, but unfortunately, I am unable to continue my role effectively. I am grateful for the support you provided me during my tenure, and I will do all I can to ensure a smooth handover to whomever takes on my duties.

Thank you for the opportunities and experience I have gained, which I will carry with me in the next chapter of my life. Please let me know if there is anything more I can do during the transition.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Due To Burnout 2: Long Hours

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with mixed emotions that I submit my formal resignation notice, effective two weeks from today. I appreciate the opportunities and growth that I have gained in this role, but I am regrettably unable to continue my employment due to burnout resulting from long hours and workload.

I appreciate the hard work and dedication of colleagues during my employment and have greatly enjoyed working in the team. It is apparent, however, that I am currently unable to continue with the current level of work. I have given the matter much thought, and believe this is the best course of action for me at this time.

Thank you again for the opportunities that I have had while working here. I will work towards making the transfer of duties in the smoothest way possible so that my resignation does not cause disruption to the team. I believe that by leaving, I will make space for someone who is able to take on what is required for the sustained growth and development of the organization.

With regards,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Due To Burnout 3: Lack of Resources

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I have made the difficult decision to resign from my position as [position] due to burnout caused by a lack of resources. With deep regret, my last day of employment will be in two weeks.

It has been an honor to have worked with you and the team. I am proud of both my personal and professional strides since being employed here. I regret that I am currently unable to remain employed due to unfulfilled support and resources that have led to unmanageable workload and demands on my abilities.

I have tried to reconcile this situation in the best interest of the organization and myself. Unfortunately, it appears this course of action is necessary for my well-being and survival. I request your gracious understanding of this decision and that it will not affect our professional and cordial relationship in the future.

Thank you for the opportunities provided to me during my tenure as an employee. I wish the best for the company and the team.

Respectfully,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Due To Burnout 4: Organizational Changes

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I regretfully tender my resignation from my position of [position] as a result of burnout due to organizational changes. My loved moments in this role have been built around a deep sense of purpose, and it is with heavy heart that I consider parting ways with the team.

It is with a heavy heart that I resign from this position at this time due to the organizational changes that have left me feeling stretched too thin within my role. As my health and wellbeing have continued to suffer, it causes me distress to be leaving the team and my present colleagues who have remained a source of support and encouragement during my employment.

The organization, including the team and management, have consistently been my priority, and it is with great sadness that I have had to make this decision for my own wellbeing at the present time. My last day of employment will be in two weeks, during which time I will do what is necessary to ensure an easy transition of my duties to whoever takes over my role.

Thank you for the opportunities and support given to me during my tenure. I am proud of the diverse accomplishments we have made while working together. I hope that we can remain connected in some way or other after my departure.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Due To Burnout 5: Unclear Expectations

Dear [Manager’s Name],

Regrettably, my tenure with this organization must come to an end. It is with deep regret that I tender my resignation effective immediately due to burnout resulting from unclear expectations and demands in my role. As a result, I find myself unable to continue working in this capacity.

I appreciate the opportunities and trust given to me by the company. Nonetheless, I am unable to sustain my productivity due to unclear expectations and escalating demands. I have spent a lot of time and thought in coming to this decision which will be beneficial to both parties.

I will work towards making the next two weeks smooth with regards to the transfer of my responsibilities. Please do not hesitate to contact me in the future should I be of any assistance. I appreciate the ability and knowledge gained while working with you, expertise I will cherish as I move on to my next phase in life.

Yours truly,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Due To Burnout 6: Lack of Support and Development Plan

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with regret that I resign from my position at [company], effective in two weeks’ time. My decision is due to a lack of support and development plans which have led me to burnout with work demands becoming unmanageable.

I’ve enjoyed working here and, over the past [length] months, have contributed and gained knowledge, from [specific projects]. However, I feel that my career development and growth potential has become stifled as I have not received the necessary support, guidance or training to perform my role adequately and in line with organizational goals or development progress.

I hope that the company can take the necessary steps to address the lack of support and guidance that exist within the organization, not just for myself but for other employees as well, as it is essential for organizational success. I will work towards making the handover process as smooth as possible for the team and my replacement.

Thank you for the opportunities and experiences bestowed upon me during my tenure. I am sad to be leaving but look forward to new beginnings in the next phase of my career.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Due To Burnout 7: Culture and Toxic Environment

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with a heavy heart and much contemplation that I submit my formal resignation effective two weeks from now. I find myself unable to remain employed due to burnout resulting from a toxic environment within the organization.

As much as I have enjoyed working with some of the current team and contributing towards the organization’s mission, the company’s culture in recent times has left me feeling unsupported, disrespected, and invisible. It’s been a struggle working in an environment where values and ethics have been compromised while trying to meet tight deadlines and unrealistic targets.

The toxicity and disregard for employee welfare have taken their toll on me, leading to low morale, motivation, and lack of direction, which has negatively affected my productivity and overall well-being. It is with sadness that I must resign under such circumstances.

Thank you for the opportunities and resources made available to me during my employment here. I hope that the company can successfully navigate the challenging times and create a healthier and more sustainable working environment for its employees.

Respectfully,

[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Resignation Letter Due to Burnout

Burnout is a serious issue that many employees face, and sometimes the only solution is to resign from your job. Writing a resignation letter due to burnout can be challenging, as it involves expressing your feelings while also maintaining a professional tone. Here are some tips to help you write a resignation letter that conveys your message clearly and respectfully:

  • Start with a positive opening statement, expressing your gratitude for the opportunities you have had at the company. This will set a positive tone for the rest of the letter and leave a good impression on your employer.
  • Be honest about your reasons for resigning, but avoid being overly negative or critical. Instead, focus on how the burnout has impacted you and your ability to perform your job effectively.
  • Suggest solutions or recommendations that could help the organization avoid burnout in the future. This shows that you still care about the company and its employees, even though you are leaving.
  • Show your appreciation for your colleagues and manager, and let them know how much you have enjoyed working with them. This will leave a good impression and help maintain positive relationships going forward.
  • End the letter on a positive note, expressing your best wishes for the company’s future success. If you are willing to offer your support or assistance during the transition period, let them know.

In summary, when writing a resignation letter due to burnout, it is important to maintain a professional and respectful tone, while also expressing your feelings honestly. Remember to focus on the impact of burnout on yourself and your ability to perform your job effectively, rather than being overly critical of the company. By following these tips, you can leave your job with a positive reputation and maintain good relationships with your employer and colleagues.

Resignation Letter Due To Burnout FAQs


What is burnout?

Burnout is a state of emotional, mental and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged stress and overwork.

Can I leave my job due to burnout?

Yes, you can resign and leave your job due to burnout. It’s important to prioritize your mental health and seek treatment if necessary.

Do I need to explain my burnout in my resignation letter?

No, you don’t need to explain your burnout in your resignation letter. It’s okay to keep it brief and simply state that you’re resigning due to personal reasons.

Do I need to give notice when resigning due to burnout?

Yes, it’s best to give your employer notice before resigning. However, if your burnout is severe and you need to leave immediately, it’s important to prioritize your health and safety.

How do I write a resignation letter due to burnout?

Start your resignation letter with a brief statement of your intent to resign. Mention the reason for resigning due to burnout, express gratitude for the opportunities provided by the company, and include the date of your last day of work.

What should I do before resigning due to burnout?

It’s important to talk to your supervisor or human resources department about your burnout and explore potential solutions or accommodations. You may also want to seek treatment such as therapy or medical attention.

Can I take time off work before resigning due to burnout?

Yes, it may be beneficial to take time off work to focus on your mental health and address your burnout before making a decision about resigning. Consult with your employer’s leave policy and HR department.

Can I apply for unemployment after resigning due to burnout?

It depends on the laws in your state and the circumstances of your resignation. It’s best to consult with your state’s unemployment office for more information.

Take Care of Yourself and Keep In Touch

Remember, burnout is a legitimate reason to resign, and your well-being should always come first. If you are currently dealing with burnout, know that you are not alone, and there are resources and support available to help you cope. I hope this article has provided some guidance and comfort to those who may be struggling with similar challenges. Thanks for reading, and I hope to see you again soon. In the meantime, take care and prioritize self-care.