Interpreting is intense—mentally, emotionally, and sometimes even physically. You're not just translating words; you're helping people navigate life-defining moments. From medical emergencies to asylum interviews, court cases to social services, interpreters often find themselves holding space for others while carrying invisible weight themselves.
Holding space for others only works if you're also making space for yourself.
Whether you’re working on-site or remotely, as a freelancer or staff interpreter, burnout can sneak in. Fatigue, emotional overload, or even the pressure to “always be available” can chip away at your well-being. And yet, in this profession, many still push through quietly—until they can’t.
Why mental health matters in interpreting
Staying mentally well isn’t just about avoiding burnout; it’s about staying in this profession for the long haul, with clarity, compassion, and resilience. Interpreting requires rapid processing, emotional regulation, and deep presence. These don’t flourish when we’re stretched thin or emotionally drained.
When interpreters feel supported and grounded, they make fewer errors, connect more deeply with those they serve, and are better prepared to handle the curveballs that real-life scenarios throw at them. But beyond performance, you matter. Your well-being matters—because you’re a human being before you’re a professional.
Taking care of your mental health isn’t selfish. It’s sustainable.
Small steps to protect your energy
If you’re feeling close to the edge—or want to avoid getting there—here are a few small but meaningful actions to start with:
🧠 Set emotional boundaries: Create transition rituals after intense assignments (music, walking, journaling). Give yourself space to return to you.
🌬️ Decompress after sessions: A few minutes of stillness, a hot shower, or even stepping outside can help regulate your nervous system.
💬 Check in with yourself: Ask, “How am I feeling today?” Then listen honestly. That’s data you can work with.
🙅♀️ Say no when needed: Turning down work to protect your health doesn’t make you unreliable—it makes you professional and self-aware.
🤝 Stay connected: Burnout thrives in isolation. Talk to peers, join communities, or show up at events that fuel you.
Let’s talk more about this—together
On June 17 at 13:00 GMT, join us for the ProZ/TV event “The human voice in a changing world: Interpreting with heart in 2025.” A space created to talk about more than platforms and productivity—we’re talking about you.
💬 Hear from professional interpreters across the globe as they reflect on what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and how they’re protecting their mental health while staying passionate about their work.
This won’t be your usual tech-focused conference. We’ll get personal, honest, and real about what it takes to keep showing up in this field, with heart.
🎥 Free participation! https://www.proz.com/tv/Interpreting2025
Hope to see you there!
