5 Ways to Avoid Content Creation Burnout

Mental health challenges—burnout, anxiety, stress and depression—can affect anyone, but content creators face unique pressures. Between the hustle of producing content, the demands of audiences and the constant need to stay relevant, it’s easy to feel like you’re running on empty.

In an episode of the First Frame podcast, hosted by Jennifer Park and Cameron Zinger, we spoke with Lindsay Killam from TELUS Health MyCare and Tazeen Ahmed from the Documentary Organization of Canada about the mental health challenges creators face and how to prioritize self-care without compromising your creative journey.

Here are five key takeaways from the episode.

1. Acknowledge the pressure and give yourself permission to rest

Creators often feel like they can’t stop, whether it’s posting new content, working on a documentary or pitching the next project. Both Lizzie and Tazeen emphasize that rest isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. Stepping back allows you to recharge, regain perspective and return to your work with renewed creativity.

“Rest can rejuvenate someone and bring life back into their creative tasks,” Lizzie says. “It can help you find new perspectives and see your ideas in fresh ways.”

2. Set boundaries, even small ones, every day

Boundaries aren’t just about big life changes; they’re often small, intentional actions you can take daily. Tazeen recommends taking a moment to step away from your workspace, stretch or enjoy a meal without checking your phone.

Lizzie adds that managing your relationship with social media is crucial. Fun distractions, like a short video, can be healing, but endless scrolling often increases stress. Tracking your screen time and setting limits can help you reclaim focus and energy.

“Little things like stepping away for five minutes or putting your phone away at mealtime can give you perspective and help reset your day.” Recognizing that it’s okay to pause is the first step toward sustainable creativity.

3. Practice mindfulness and self-compassion

Creative work often comes with high expectations, from yourself and others. Lizzie encourages self-check-ins throughout the day like noticing tension in your body, checking your emotional state and asking, ‘What can I do for myself right now?’

Equally important is self-compassion. Treat yourself as you would a friend facing the same struggles. Being mindful and kind toward yourself can counter negative self-talk, which is all too common in creative fields.

“We’re often our own worst critic,” Lizzie notes. “Just stepping back and practicing self-compassion can be hugely healing.”

4. Build your support network

No one should navigate mental health challenges alone. Support can come from friends, family, mentors or professionals. Tazeen shares that independent creators, especially those without corporate benefits, may face barriers to accessing mental health resources. Seeking support, whether personal or professional, is a critical step in maintaining well-being.

“Knowing what fits for you to unwind or decompress is key,” says Tazeen. “It could be physical activity, talking to someone you trust or accessing professional resources.”

5. Know where to find help

Fortunately, there are resources tailored to creators. For documentary filmmakers, the Documentary Organization of Canada offers a mental health database with general and specialized support. 

Telehealth MyCare provides virtual counselling across BC, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec via a free app. And Canada-wide, the 988 number offers 24/7 suicide prevention support.

“It’s normal to struggle. Anxiety and stress are natural emotions, but support is available and asking for it is a strength, not a weakness,” Lizzie reminds us.

Protecting your mental health doesn’t require drastic changes overnight. Small, consistent actions like resting, setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, leaning on your network and knowing where to get help can make all the difference in sustaining a long, creative career.

Check out the full episode below:

How to watch and listen

TELUS STORYHIVE First Frame is now available for free on TELUS Optik TV Video on Demand channel 9, Stream+ and YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more at STORYHIVE.com/firstframe. 

Stay tuned for Season 2.