Understanding Interpreter Burnout

Welcome to A Student's Guide to Avoiding ASL Interpreter Burnout. This resource was created to help ASL interpreting students understand the mental health impact of interpreting. My goal is to provide the knowledge and the tools you will need to protect your mental health during interpreting and avoid burnout. Interpreter burnout is a serious problem, and I created this page to provide access to resources and activities that can help mitigate it.

The Reality of Interpreter Burnout

An up-and-coming ASL interpreter must recognize the danger of burnout. The Interpreting profession is rife with emotional and mental roadblocks. If these roadblocks are not navigated correctly, they can lead to exhaustion and a decrease in well-being. This page offers proven activities that can lessen the mental load of interpreting.

The importance of having a mentor

The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf notes the importance of young interpreters having a qualified mentor. According to the RID, mentors help young interpreters successfully navigate the rocky road of interpreting.

Signs of Interpreter Burnout

Homeland Language Services notes the following symptoms of burnout:

  • Chronic Exhaustion: Feeling drained even after rest.

  • Decreased Performance: Struggling with focus, making more errors, or taking longer to complete tasks.

  • Emotional Detachment: Feeling disconnected from clients or colleagues.

  • Irritability or Cynicism: Becoming easily frustrated with assignments or clients.

  • Physical Symptoms: Headaches, insomnia, or frequent illnesses due to stress.

    Source: Recognizing and managing burnout: A guide for interpreters and translators. Homeland Language Services. (n.d.). https://homelandlanguageservices.com/recognizing-and-managing-burnout-a-guide-for-interpreters-and-translators/#:~:text=Signs%20of%20Burnout%20in%20Interpreters,frequent%20illnesses%20due%20to%20stress.

     

     

"This guide was created as a resource for students who plan to enter the ASL interpreting profession. I hope this encourages you to address burnout early so you can have a sustainable and satisfying career."

A Student's Guide to Avoiding ASL Interpreter Burnout