Grief in Midlife: The Hidden Losses Behind Burnout

In this solo episode of Midlife Reclaimed, I explore grief in midlife — a powerful but often unrecognised experience for many midlife women, especially those navigating burnout, identity shifts, changing roles, and the emotional transitions of this life stage.When we think of grief, we often think about death. But grief in midlife can also arise through:burnout and recoverychanges in health, energy, or menopause transitionschildren growing up or leaving home or notcareer and identity shiftsageing parents and changing relationshipsthe quiet realisation that parts of our former life no longer fitDrawing on my work as a psychologist supporting midlife women experiencing burnout and mental health challenges — as well as my own lived experience — I explore:what grief in midlife actually iswhy it often goes unnoticedanticipatory grief and life transitionsthe connection between burnout and emotional wellbeingself-compassionate ways to support yourselfIf you’ve been feeling heavier, unsettled, or sensing change within yourself, this episode may help you understand what’s happening — and remind you that you’re not alone.Healing, growth, and reclaiming yourself in midlife are possible.Host: Shannon Swales, Clinical Psychologist, award-winning author, and midlife woman who’s walked through burnout and come out the other side. Shannon combines clinical wisdom with lived experience to support others navigating chronic stress, burnout, and big life transitions. Through gentle conversations and evidence-based insights, she helps women reconnect with themselves, reclaim their energy, and grow through what once felt like breaking points.The Midlife Reclaimed Podcast has been nominated in the Women in Podcasting Awards, recognising podcasts created by women making an impact through meaningful conversations and storytelling. Find out more here https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards Voting opens in April 2026. We'd love your support.If you enjoy the Midlife Reclaimed Podcast, join our community:• Midlife Reclaimed Online Community - a place to come back home to self - https://midlife-reclaimed.mn.co/• Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn @shannon.a.swales• 1:1 Therapy: www.shannonaswales.com/therapySubscribe to my Mailing List: www.shannonaswales.com/subscribe and receive a free eJournal to assist in coming home to yourself.Disclaimer: This podcast does not create a therapist-client relationship with Shannon A Swales. The views expressed are general & not a substitute for personalised therapy. If in distress, seek professional help. Remember—you don’t have to face your struggles alone.DisclaimerEngaging with this podcast does not intend to create, nor does it create, a therapist-client relationship between you and Shannon A Swales. All views, opinions, and tips expressed by me or my guests are general in nature and not a replacement for personalised therapy. As I have done for myself, I encourage anyone experiencing distress to seek professional support. In Australia, if you are in a life-threatening emergency, please dial 000. For immediate counselling, contact Lifeline (13 11 14) or 13YARN (13 92 76) for First Nation Australians. Stay safe, and remember—you don’t have to face your struggles alone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.