Late Diagnosed ADHD in Women: You Are Not Imagining It
If you have spent years feeling scatterbrained, overwhelmed, or like you are constantly playing catch up despite being intelligent and hardworking, you are not alone. Many BIPOC women are now being diagnosed with ADHD well into adulthood. And it is not because the symptoms just began. It is because they were overlooked for a long time.
Historically, ADHD was studied and diagnosed in young white boys who showed hyperactivity and impulsivity (Hinshaw et al., 2021). But ADHD often presents differently in girls and women, especially women of color. Symptoms like inattention, forgetfulness, and emotional sensitivity are often mistaken for anxiety, carelessness, or simply being overly emotional.
On top of that, racial bias continues to shape how symptoms are perceived. Black and brown women are more likely to be dismissed, misdiagnosed, or ignored completely (Robinson et al., 2022). This often leads to years of feeling inadequate, misunderstood, and exhausted. Many high achievers learn to mask their challenges behind perfectionism and people pleasing.
Receiving a diagnosis later in life can bring both grief and relief. Grief for the time spent not knowing why everything felt harder. Relief for finally having a name for your experience. The good news is that it is never too late to find support and learn how to work with your brain rather than fight against it.
At Balens Therapy, we understand the unique experiences of BIPOC women. We offer culturally sensitive care that helps you process your diagnosis, build self compassion, and develop real-life strategies that actually fit your needs. Whether you are newly diagnosed or still wondering if ADHD could be part of your story, we are here to support you every step of the way.
You are not imagining it. And you do not have to figure it out alone. Book a free consultation with Balens Therapy today.
Works Cited
Hinshaw, Stephen P., and Katherine Ellison. ADHD: What Everyone Needs to Know. Oxford University Press, 2021.
Robinson, Amanda L., et al. “Racial and Ethnic Disparities in the Diagnosis and Treatment of ADHD.” Journal of Attention Disorders, vol. 26, no. 1, 2022, pp. 48–60. doi:10.1177/1087054720956180.
Burnout vs Anxiety: How to Tell the Difference
In today’s fast-paced world, especially for high-achieving BIPOC women juggling careers, caregiving, and community expectations, it can be hard to tell when you're “just stressed” or when something deeper is going on. Burnout and anxiety often show up looking similar but they have different roots and require different care approaches. Understanding the difference is the first step to feeling like yourself again.
Burnout is typically work-related and develops over time. It’s the body and mind’s response to chronic stress. You might notice emotional exhaustion, reduced performance, or feeling detached from your work and relationships. According to Maslach et al., burnout includes emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment (Maslach & Leiter, 2016).
Anxiety, on the other hand, tends to be more persistent and can exist even outside of work settings. It often includes racing thoughts, excessive worrying, physical symptoms like tension or a rapid heartbeat, and difficulty relaxing. Generalized anxiety disorder affects about 5.7% of adults in their lifetime (Kessler et al., 2005).
Here’s one way to tell: If you feel better after a weekend off, a vacation, or stepping away from work? That might point to burnout. If the worry, restlessness, or panic follows you regardless of your environment, anxiety could be the culprit.
It’s also possible to experience both. Burnout can become a trigger for anxiety disorders and vice versa. For racialized women, the added weight of microaggressions, systemic pressures, and the “strong Black woman” stereotype can make both burnout and anxiety feel like a constant background hum (Williams et al., 2019).
At Balens Therapy, we understand how these layers interact. Therapy offers a safe space to unpack the expectations, perfectionism, and exhaustion that so many high-achieving professionals carry. We use evidence-based approaches like ACT, CBT, and strength-based work to help you move from surviving to thriving.
You deserve more than just pushing through. Book a free consultation today and explore how therapy can help you feel whole again.
Works Cited
Kessler, Ronald C., et al. “Lifetime prevalence and age-of-onset distributions of DSM-IV disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication.” Archives of General Psychiatry, vol. 62, no. 6, 2005, pp. 593–602. doi:10.1001/archpsyc.62.6.593.
Maslach, Christina, and Michael P. Leiter. Burnout: A Multidimensional Perspective. Psychology Press, 2016.
Williams, David R., et al. “Racial/Ethnic Discrimination and Health: Findings from Community Studies.” American Journal of Public Health, vol. 109, S1, 2019, pp. S43–S47. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2018.304844.
Imperfect Action Is Still Progress
Why Imperfect Action Is the Key to Healing
Perfectionism is sneaky. It can look like overachieving hyper-independence or even procrastination. If you are a high-achieving woman of colour who feels like you always need to get it right the first time, you are not alone. Many clients at Balens Therapy carry the invisible weight of perfectionism shaped by family expectations, cultural narratives and systemic pressure to excel.
But here is the truth. Waiting until everything is perfect can hold you back from real growth. Research shows that self-compassion and willingness to take imperfect steps lead to better emotional resilience and lower levels of anxiety and depression (Neff and Germer).
Imperfect Action in Therapy
Healing is not linear. Whether it is showing up to a session even when you do not feel like it, trying a new coping skill that feels awkward, or finally opening up about something painful, these small, brave moves matter. A 2020 study found that progress in therapy is often made through consistent imperfect engagement rather than big breakthroughs (Zilcha-Mano et al.).
Perfection tells you to delay. Healing invites you to begin.
You Deserve to Start
At Balens Therapy, we create space for you to be human, not flawless. You do not need to have it all figured out. All you need is a willingness to take one small step. Even a messy one.
Let’s Talk
If you are feeling stuck or scared to begin, book a free 20-minute consultation. We are here to walk with you, no matter where you are starting from.
Works Cited
Neff, Kristin D., and Christopher K. Germer. “A Pilot Study and Randomized Controlled Trial of the Mindful Self-Compassion Program.” Journal of Clinical Psychology, vol. 69, no. 1, 2013, pp. 28–44. https://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.21923.
Zilcha-Mano, Sigal, et al. “Process Predictors of Sudden Gains in Therapeutic Alliance and Symptom Improvement.” Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, vol. 88, no. 1, 2020, pp. 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1037/ccp0000456.
Worried About Starting Medication? You’re Not Alone
Afraid to Start Psychotropic Medication? Let’s Talk About It
So your doctor or therapist mentioned medication. Maybe you filled the prescription. Maybe it’s still sitting untouched. If you are a high-achieving woman of colour who has always figured things out on your own, it makes sense that the idea of starting meds can feel unfamiliar or even scary.
You are not alone in this. Many people hesitate when it comes to psychotropic medications for anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges. Concerns about side effects, stigma, dependency or losing control are common and valid.
Why the Fear?
Studies show that up to 30 percent of patients prescribed antidepressants never start taking them (Warden et al.). For BIPOC communities, this hesitation can be even stronger. Historical mistreatment by healthcare systems combined with cultural beliefs about strength and resilience can lead to mistrust or guilt around taking medication (Ward et al.).
What the Research Says
Medications like SSRIs and mood stabilizers are not meant to change who you are. They work by helping to rebalance neurotransmitters in the brain that affect mood, sleep and focus. For many people, combining medication with therapy leads to better outcomes than therapy alone (Cuijpers et al.).
Still Unsure? That’s Okay
Starting meds is a personal decision. No one should pressure you. At Balens Therapy, we believe in informed choice. We help clients explore how they feel about medication, what the evidence says and how to make the best decision for their body and mind.
Medication is one tool in the toolbox. It does not mean you are weak or broken. It means you are willing to consider all the options for healing.
Let’s Talk
If you are wrestling with the decision to start medication or want a space to talk it through with no judgment book a free 20-minute consultation. We are here to support you in making the decision that feels right for you.
Works Cited
Cuijpers, Pim, et al. “Psychotherapy for Depression in Adults: A Meta-Analysis of Comparative Outcome Studies.” Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, vol. 76, no. 6, 2008, pp. 909–922. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0013075.
Ward, Earlise C., et al. “African American Men and Women’s Attitude Toward Mental Illness Perceptions of Stigma and Preferred Coping Behaviors.” Nursing Research, vol. 58, no. 3, 2009, pp. 185–194. https://doi.org/10.1097/NNR.0b013e3181a3099c.
Warden, Diane, et al. “The STAR*D Project Results: A Comprehensive Review of Findings.” Current Psychiatry Reports, vol. 9, no. 6, 2007, pp. 449–459. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-007-0061-3.
Therapy and Insurance: How Much Does Therapy Cost?
How Much Does Therapy Cost, Really? A Guide for BIPOC Women and High Achievers
Let’s be honest. Finding a therapist is hard enough. Add the confusing world of insurance and unpredictable pricing and suddenly your mental health journey starts to feel more like a maze than a path to healing.
If you are a high-achieving woman of color balancing a million responsibilities, you are probably asking, “Can I even afford therapy? ” The answer is: maybe more than you think.
Understanding Therapy Fees and Insurance
Therapy in Ontario typically ranges from $120 to $250 per session depending on the provider’s credentials. While psychologists tend to be on the higher end, Registered Nurse Psychotherapists like those at Balens Therapy offer high-quality care that is often more affordable.
Here is the good news. Many insurance plans do cover therapy, but not all cover the same types of providers. Some plans cover psychologists only. Others include coverage for only social workers and Registered Psychotherapists while some also cover Nurse Psychotherapists. It is always worth a call to your provider to ask whether therapy provided by a Registered Nurse is included under your mental health benefits.
Research shows that people are more likely to stick with therapy when cost is not a barrier. A 2021 study in Psychiatric Services found that insurance coverage significantly improves access to psychotherapy and reduces dropout rates (Rowan et al.). Yet racial and economic disparities persist. Many BIPOC professionals report skipping care due to unclear pricing or lack of inclusive services (Holden et al.).
So, what can you do?
Confirm your insurance benefits for psychotherapy. Look for terms like “Registered Nurse,” “psychotherapist,” or “counselling.”
Ask about direct billing or reimbursement options.
Consider sliding scale rates. Some providers, like Balens Therapy, offer reduced-fee spots.
Your mental health is not a luxury. It is essential. The system is not always built with our communities in mind. That is why Balens Therapy was created to make therapy more accessible, empowering and culturally attuned.
Let’s Talk
If you are feeling burnt out, stuck or overwhelmed, book a free 20-minute consultation today. We will walk you through the process so you can make the best choice for your wellbeing.
Works Cited
Holden, K. B., et al. “Disparities in Depression Treatment Among Racial and Ethnic Minority Populations in the United States.” Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings, vol. 21, no. 3, 2014, pp. 177–193. Springer, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10880-014-9405-1.
Rowan, K., et al. “Trends in Outpatient Psychotherapy Use Among Adults in the United States: 2004 to 2019.” Psychiatric Services, vol. 72, no. 10, 2021, pp. 1174–1181. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.202000680.
High Functioning Anxiety is Still Anxiety
Just because you “look fine” doesn’t mean you aren’t struggling inside. High-functioning anxiety is real anxiety, it’s not just about panic attacks or obvious distress. Many high-achieving BIPOC women manage to keep everything together on the outside while feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and constantly on edge within.
Busting the Myth
The myth that anxiety always looks a certain way can make those with high-functioning anxiety feel invisible or misunderstood. They may excel at work, maintain busy schedules, and meet expectations yet internally experience chronic worry, muscle tension, and difficulty sleeping. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, nearly 6.8 million adults in the US live with generalized anxiety disorder and many go undiagnosed because their symptoms are less obvious (ADAA 2023).
What Science Tells Us
Studies show high-functioning anxiety is associated with increased stress hormones, sleep disturbances, and impaired concentration, which can reduce quality of life even when productivity remains high (Harvard Medical School 2022). It can also contribute to burnout and depression if left unaddressed (Eysenck et al. 2007).
For BIPOC women, this struggle is compounded by systemic pressures to perform, racial microaggressions, and the emotional labor of navigating cultural expectations. These factors contribute to increased vulnerability to anxiety disorders and make therapy a critical space for healing and empowerment (Williams et al. 2018).
You’re Not Alone
If you relate to feeling “fine” on the outside but wrecked inside, therapy can help. At Balens Therapy, we provide culturally sensitive, evidence-based care to support your mental wellness and reclaim your peace.
Ready to start your healing journey?
Book a free consultation today and take the first step.
Works Cited
Anxiety and Depression Association of America. “Facts and Statistics.” ADAA, 2023, www.adaa.org/about-adaa/press-room/facts-statistics.
Eysenck, Michael W., et al. “Anxiety and Cognitive Performance: Attentional Control Theory.” Emotion, vol. 7, no. 2, 2007, pp. 336–353.
Harvard Medical School. “Understanding Anxiety Disorders.” Harvard Health Publishing, 2022.
Williams, Michelle T., et al. “Culturally Sensitive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety Disorders in Diverse Populations.” Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, vol. 25, no. 1, 2018, pp. e12219.
The Invisible Load of Mental Exhaustion: It’s Not in Your Head
For many high-achieving Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color (BIPOC), mental exhaustion isn't just about being tired, it's a chronic state of emotional depletion. Despite outward success, many carry an unseen burden that impacts their ability to show up as their full selves.
Understanding the Unseen Burden
Mental exhaustion often shows up as persistent fatigue, irritability, and the sense that your mind is “always on.” It’s not laziness, it’s the result of prolonged stress, pressure to succeed, and the emotional labor of navigating spaces that weren’t built for you.
BIPOC women frequently experience unique stressors such as racial microaggressions, code-switching, and the need to outperform peers just to be seen as competent. These stressors have been shown to contribute to higher levels of chronic stress and burnout in both professional and academic settings (Collins et al. 2021).
Racial Battle Fatigue, Impostor Syndrome & Burnout
The concept of racial battle fatigue explains how ongoing racial stress leads to emotional, psychological, and physical strain, especially for people of color in predominantly white institutions (Smith et al. 2007). Add gendered expectations and the “strong Black woman” trope, and it becomes clear why so many BIPOC women burn out in silence.
Research also indicates that the impostor phenomenon, characterized by feeling like a fraud despite clear accomplishments, is particularly prevalent among women of color in high-achieving roles (Cokley et al., 2017). This constant self-doubt can add yet another invisible weight to an already heavy mental load.
How Therapy Can Help
Therapy offers a confidential space to unpack all of this, without judgment. Evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness have been shown to reduce stress, improve emotion regulation, and increase resilience (Khoury et al. 2013; Hofmann et al. 2012).
At Balens Therapy, we offer culturally attuned support designed for BIPOC women navigating high-stress careers. Whether you’re battling burnout, impostor syndrome, or just feeling stuck, we’re here to walk with you toward clarity, healing, and balance.
You deserve rest that heals, not just sleep that escapes.
✨ Book your free consultation today
Works Cited
Cokley, Kevin, et al. “Impostor Feelings as a Moderator and Mediator of the Relationship Between Perceived Discrimination and Mental Health.” Journal of Counseling Psychology, vol. 64, no. 2, 2017, pp. 141–150.
Collins, Krystal L., et al. “Burnout and Race-Related Stress Among BIPOC Women K–12 Educators.” Urban Education, 2021.
Hofmann, Stefan G., et al. “The Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Review of Meta-analyses.” Cognitive Therapy and Research, vol. 36, 2012, pp. 427–440.
Khoury, Bassam, et al. “Mindfulness-Based Therapy: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis.” Clinical Psychology Review, vol. 33, no. 6, 2013, pp. 763–771.
Smith, William A., et al. “Racial Battle Fatigue in Higher Education: Exposing the Myth of Post-Racial America.” Stylus Publishing, 2007.
What Actually Helps Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD)?
Living with PPPD can feel like being stuck in a loop. The dizziness doesn’t spin, but it lingers. You may feel off-balance, floaty, or anxious in busy places or when you’re simply trying to stand still. The good news? Research shows there are ways out of that loop.
So what really helps PPPD?
The most effective treatments for PPPD are vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and in some cases, medications like SSRIs or SNRIs.
1. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)
VRT is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to retrain your balance system. It’s the first-line treatment for PPPD and has been shown to significantly reduce dizziness severity and improve quality of life. Exercises are tailored to your specific symptoms and may include balance work, head movements, walking exercises, or visual desensitization for those with visual vertigo (Choi et al.; Nada et al.; Suica et al.).
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT addresses the psychological and emotional side of PPPD. It helps break the cycle of anxiety, hypervigilance, and body sensitivity that often feeds into persistent symptoms. CBT can be used alone or alongside VRT and has shown strong results in reducing symptom burden and improving daily functioning (Trinidade & Goebel; Das et al.; Wang et al.).
3. Medications (SSRIs/SNRIs)
In more complex cases or when anxiety is prominent, medications like SSRIs and SNRIs can be helpful. While research is still evolving, clinical experience suggests these medications can support recovery by calming the nervous system and reducing overactivation in the brain’s balance and emotion networks (Sun & Xiang; Webster et al.).
A Whole-Person Approach
At Balens Therapy, we focus on CBT tailored to PPPD, combined with nervous system regulation and holistic care. We work with you to ease anxiety, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and gently reconnect with your body in a way that feels safe. While we don’t provide VRT ourselves, we’re happy to collaborate with your care team to make sure your support plan is truly comprehensive.
We also integrate nature-informed therapy where appropriate — using mindfulness, grounding, and natural metaphors to help you feel more steady in your own skin.
You don’t have to live in constant dizziness.
Book your free 20-minute consultation with Balens Therapy and let’s explore your next step toward balance and healing.
📍Serving clients across Ontario, virtually.
Works Cited
Choi, S.Y., et al. “Effect of Vestibular Exercise and Optokinetic Stimulation Using Virtual Reality in Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness.” Scientific Reports, vol. 11, no. 1, 2021, p. 14437. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-93940-z.
Nada, E.H., et al. “Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy Outcomes in Patients With Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness.” Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and Laryngology, vol. 128, no. 4, 2019, pp. 323–29. https://doi.org/10.1177/0003489418823017.
Suica, Z., et al. “Comparative Effectiveness of Non-Pharmacological Treatments in Patients With Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness.” Frontiers in Neurology, vol. 15, 2024, p. 1426566. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2024.1426566.
Trinidade, A., and J.A. Goebel. “Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness.” Otology & Neurotology, vol. 39, no. 10, 2018, pp. 1291–1303. https://doi.org/10.1097/MAO.0000000000002010.
Das, S., et al. “Persistent Positional Perceptual Dizziness in Clinical Practice.” Neurological Sciences, vol. 44, no. 1, 2023, pp. 129–35. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10072-022-06353-9.
Wang, A., et al. “Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness in Children and Adolescents.” Otology & Neurotology, vol. 42, no. 8, 2021, pp. e1093–e1100. https://doi.org/10.1097/MAO.0000000000003212.
Sun, L., and K. Xiang. “A Review on the Alterations in the Brain of Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness Patients.” Reviews in the Neurosciences, vol. 31, no. 6, 2020, pp. 675–80. https://doi.org/10.1515/revneuro-2019-0109.
Webster, K.E., et al. “Pharmacological Interventions for Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness.” Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, vol. 3, 2023, CD015188. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD015188.pub2.
ADHD in BIPOC Communities: The Stories We Weren’t Told
For many individuals in Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities, the experience of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often goes unrecognized, misdiagnosed, or misunderstood. Instead of receiving support, many are labeled as lazy, disruptive, or unmotivated. This misrepresentation leads to internalized shame and a lack of access to appropriate care.
Understanding ADHD Beyond Stereotypes
ADHD is more than just hyperactivity or inattentiveness. It encompasses a range of symptoms, including:
Chronic overwhelm and difficulty prioritizing tasks
Emotional dysregulation and mood swings
Challenges with time management and organization
Persistent feelings of underachievement despite effort
Research indicates that Black individuals are less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD compared to their White counterparts, even when presenting similar symptoms. A study published in JAMA Network Open found that Asian, Black, and Hispanic children were significantly less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD compared with White children.
The Impact of Underdiagnosis
The underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis of ADHD in BIPOC communities have profound implications. Without proper identification and support, individuals may experience:
Increased risk of anxiety and depression
Lower academic and occupational achievement
Heightened feelings of isolation and low self-esteem
Moreover, Black children are more likely to be diagnosed with conduct disorders rather than ADHD, reflecting potential biases in diagnostic practices.
Navigating Cultural and Systemic Barriers
Several factors contribute to the disparities in ADHD diagnosis and treatment within BIPOC communities:
Cultural Stigma: Mental health issues are often stigmatized, leading individuals to dismiss or hide their struggles.
Lack of Representation: Limited representation of BIPOC individuals in mental health professions can hinder culturally competent care.
Systemic Bias: Implicit biases among healthcare providers can influence diagnostic decisions, often misinterpreting symptoms through a racialized lens.
The Role of Therapy in Healing
Therapy offers a space to explore and understand one's experiences without judgment. At Balens Therapy, we prioritize culturally sensitive approaches, recognizing the unique challenges faced by BIPOC individuals with ADHD. Our therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), are tailored to address:
Building organizational and coping strategies
Enhancing self-awareness and self-compassion
Navigating cultural identity and systemic challenges
Taking the First Step
Recognizing the signs of ADHD and seeking support is a courageous act. If you or someone you know resonates with these experiences, know that you're not alone, and help is available.
Ready to explore this journey?
Book a free consultation today and take the first step toward understanding and empowerment.
Further Reading
Racial Disparities in Diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Unconscious Bias and the Diagnosis of Disruptive Behavior Disorders and ADHD
Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Living with PPPD: When the World Won’t Stop Moving
Ever feel dizzy, off-balance, or like you're floating, even though your tests come back normal?
That might be Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness aka PPPD, a real, frustrating, and often misunderstood condition that affects the way your brain processes balance and motion.
If that sounds like you, you’re not “making it up.” And you’re definitely not alone.
So… What Is PPPD?
PPPD is a functional neurological disorder where the brain gets stuck in "alert" mode, misfiring balance signals even when you're not in danger.
Symptoms include:
Feeling like you're swaying, bobbing, or floating
Unsteadiness that worsens with standing, movement, or busy environments (like grocery stores)
Difficulty concentrating or feeling mentally foggy
Symptoms that get worse with stress or fatigue
Unlike vertigo or inner ear disorders, PPPD doesn’t show up on scans, but it’s very real and recognized by neurologists, ENT specialists, and mental health professionals alike.
The Hardware Analogy: You're Not Broken
Think of your brain like a hard drive. After a virus (like a vestibular injury or major stressor), your system tries to protect you…but ends up glitching.
PPPD is not in your head, it’s in how your brain is functioning. It's a software issue, not a hardware one. That means your body isn’t broken. It just needs a reset.
And therapy can help you do just that.
How Therapy Supports PPPD Recovery
Living with PPPD is scary. It can trigger anxiety, panic, avoidance, and shame. You might start questioning your body and your mind.
At Balens Therapy, we work with clients across Ontario, navigating PPPD and other functional disorders using:
🧠 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to reduce fear and avoidance
🌀 Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) to build resilience and flexibility
🫶🏽 Validation and psychoeducation so you don’t feel gaslit by your own symptoms
Therapy doesn’t “fix” you, because you’re not broken. It helps your brain and body learn safety again.
You Deserve to Feel Grounded Again
You’re not overreacting. You’re not imagining it. You’re coping with a brain that’s been in survival mode for too long…and you can heal.
Let’s get you the support you deserve.
🌱 Book a free 20-minute consultation today at
👉🏽 www.balenstherapy.janeapp.com
The Invisible Load: What’s Weighing You Down Might Not Be on Your To-Do List
If your brain feels like 40 tabs are open, and one is playing music you can’t find, you’re not alone. That, my friend, is the invisible load.
At Balens Therapy, we hear this all the time from our clients: high-achieving professionals, healthcare workers, and women of color who feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and unsure why they can’t “just push through” like they used to.
Spoiler: it’s not weakness. It’s burnout. And often, it’s caused by a load no one else sees, but you carry every day.
What Is the Invisible Load?
The invisible load refers to the mental and emotional labor involved in managing your life, career, relationships, and cultural expectations. It’s the background stress of being “the strong one,” the responsible one, the one who holds it all together, at work and at home.
This mental load often includes:
Managing others’ emotions
Planning and coordinating daily responsibilities
Anticipating needs at work or home
Navigating racism, sexism, and generational pressure
Code-switching and self-monitoring in professional settings
And for women of color, nurses, therapists, and first-generation professionals, the load is amplified. Research shows that the intersection of caregiving, career pressure, and cultural dynamics significantly increases stress and burnout risk (Crenshaw, 1989; Woods-Giscombé, 2010).
How the Invisible Load Leads to Burnout
Burnout is more than being tired. It’s a state of emotional exhaustion, detachment, and feeling like nothing you do makes a difference. The World Health Organization officially classifies burnout as a workplace phenomenon caused by chronic stress.
But here’s what gets missed:
You don’t need to be physically overworked to be burned out. You might just be mentally and emotionally overloaded.
Studies show that ongoing emotional labor, common in healthcare, caregiving roles, and among marginalized professionals, is a major predictor of burnout (Brotheridge & Grandey, 2002). And because it’s invisible, it’s often ignored by others… and minimized by ourselves.
Signs You're Carrying an Invisible Load
If you relate to any of the following, your nervous system may be shouting for support:
You’re constantly tired, even after sleep
You feel numb, irritable, or unmotivated
You dread small tasks or decisions
You feel like you’re failing, even when you’re not
You’re the one everyone turns to, but no one asks how you are
What You Can Do About It
The good news? You don’t have to live like this forever.
Start here:
✅ Acknowledge your load: It’s real, even if it’s not on a to-do list.
✅ Set boundaries that protect your energy: Not just your time.
✅ Replace self-criticism with self-compassion: You’re human, not a robot.
✅ Talk to a therapist who gets it. (Hi, that’s us!)
Therapy for Burnout and Emotional Overload
At Balens Therapy, we specialize in virtual psychotherapy for burnout, stress, anxiety, and life transitions, with a strong focus on supporting: Women of color & High-achieving professionals who are tired of pretending everything’s fine.
We offer therapy across Ontario, including Toronto, Vaughan, and Mississauga, with a nature-informed, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based approach. Let’s Lighten the Load Together. If you’re carrying more than anyone realizes, you don’t need to do it alone.
🧠 Book a free 20-minute virtual consultation today and get the support you deserve:
👉🏽 www.balenstherapy.janeapp.com