Burnout is a state of physical and emotional exhaustion caused by long-term stress, most often related to work. The World Health Organization describes it as an occupational phenomenon resulting from workplace stress that hasn't been successfully managed.
Warning signs
- Exhaustion: feeling drained even after resting.
- Cynicism: feeling detached, negative or irritated about work.
- Reduced performance: difficulty concentrating, feeling ineffective.
- Physical symptoms: headaches, sleep problems, frequent illness.
- Loss of motivation for things you once enjoyed.
Is it burnout or depression?
They overlap. Burnout is tied to a specific context, usually work, while depression affects all areas of life. A health professional can help tell them apart.
What can help
- Acknowledge it. Recognising the problem is the first step.
- Set boundaries. Switch off work notifications outside work hours.
- Talk to your manager about workload and priorities.
- Rest properly. Take real breaks and use your holidays.
- Protect the basics. Sleep, food and movement.
- Reconnect with hobbies and friends.
If you feel persistently low, hopeless or unsafe, please reach out to a doctor, a mental health professional or a local crisis line. You deserve support.
General information only, not medical advice. Always talk to a qualified health professional about your own situation.
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