Hosted by Dr. Sarah Hensley, Specialized Social Psychologist, Attachment Theory Expert, and Founder & CEO of The Love Doc Relationship Coaching Services with Co-host Raina Butcher, Owner/CEO of Joyful Consulting, LLC. 

Welcome to "The Love Doc Podcast" Season II, where Host Dr. Sarah Hensley and her co-host Raina Butcher dive deep into the intricacies of love, attraction, attachment, relationships, and self-awareness. Dr. Hensley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help listeners navigate the complexities of modern romance. In each episode, Dr. Hensley tackles burning questions about love, relationships, and the mind’s complexities, drawing from her psychological research, real-life experiences, and her own individual expertise, to provide insightful perspectives and practical advice.

Episode 28, Season II: “Running on Empty: Understanding Emotional Burnout, Allostatic Load & The High Cost of Carrying Too Much”

In this deeply validating and eye-opening episode of The Love Doc Podcast, Dr. Sarah Hensley and Raina Butcher tackle an issue that is quietly suffocating millions of people; emotional burnout. They break down why so many individuals, especially women, are reaching a breaking point.

Dr. Hensley introduces listeners to the scientific concept of allostatic load, the cumulative wear and tear on the body caused by chronic emotional stress. Whether you’re navigating overwhelming responsibilities at work, carrying the mental load of a household, juggling the emotional needs of children, or fighting for connection in an insecurely attached relationship, the body registers every single demand. And eventually, it keeps the score.

Dr. Hensley dives into the physiological reality of what happens when the emotional gas tank runs dry. She explains how constant stress dysregulates hormone production—particularly cortisol, adrenaline, and estrogen-progesterone balance—leading to symptoms like brain fog, irritability, emotional numbness, sleep disruption, inflammation, lowered immunity, hair loss, weight fluctuations, and difficulty accessing joy. Raina shares her own experiences with emotional overload, offering listeners a relatable window into what it feels like when your body quietly whispers… then suddenly screams… that enough is enough.

Together, they illuminate how burnout is not a personal failure but a biological response to chronic, unrelenting demand. But this conversation isn’t just about naming the problem—it’s about offering a path forward. Dr. Hensley teaches listeners how to increase their emotional capacity by building a bigger “gas tank,” strengthening the nervous system through consistent, intentional regulation practices, realistic boundaries, appropriate rest cycles, and emotional processing skills. She reminds listeners that while humans are adaptable, we were never designed to live in perpetual survival mode. Our nervous systems were built for presence, connection, slowness, joy, and manageable stress—not the endless mental gymnastics required of modern life.

This episode is heartfelt, honest, and profoundly hopeful, offering not just insight but compassion for everyone walking through the heaviness of emotional depletion.

Tune in to The Love Doc Podcast every Tuesday morning for candid conversations, expert insights, and the guidance you need to navigate love and relationships in today’s world. For more information on Dr. Hensley’s offerings, explore the links below and connect with her on social media.

Patreons link: patreon.com/TheLoveDocPodcast

Dr. Hensley’s Hybrid Group Coaching: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/group-coaching

Book one on one with Dr. Hensley or one of her certified coaches: Virtual Coaching

Purchase Dr. Hensley’s online courses: https://courses.thelovedoc.com/courses

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Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast reflects personal experiences, opinions, and perspectives. The stories told are based on real-life events as remembered and interpreted by the hosts and guests. While we may discuss past relationships, custody matters, or personal dynamics, we do so from our point of view and with the intention of healing, education, and advocacy.

Identities are not disclosed unless already publicly known or permitted, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental unless explicitly stated. The information provided is not intended to defame, malign, or harm any individual or entity.

We do not offer legal advice or psychological diagnosis. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding their specific circumstances.

By listening to this podcast, you agree that the hosts are not liable for any losses, damages, or misunderstandings arising from its content.

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