How do you cope when you're in survival mode but still have to fight systems?

I stopped trying to be polite in emails. Clear, direct, documented. When I'm burnt out I can't afford to waste energy on niceties with people who aren't listening anyway.

Lower the bar for everything else. Takeaway for dinner every night if needed. Let the house get messy. Focus all energy on the one fight that matters most. The rest can wait.