BURNOUT

The World Health Organization classifies burnout as an occupational phenomenon, not a medical condition. It is described as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.

It is characterised by three dimensions: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; increased mental distance from one's job, or feelings of negativity or cynicism about it; and reduced professional efficacy.

The definition refers specifically to the occupational context and is not intended to describe experiences in other areas of life.

Because the cause is chronic workplace stress, changes to workload, control and support usually matter as much as individual coping strategies.

These are experiences some people may recognise. They can have many causes and are not a diagnosis.

• Persistent exhaustion that rest does not seem to resolve.
• Growing detachment, cynicism or negativity towards work.
• A sense that effort no longer produces results, or reduced confidence in one's own capability.
• These signs can have many causes, including physical health conditions and mental-health difficulties, which is why professional assessment can be useful.

• Naming the situation with a manager, HR or occupational health can open practical options around workload and hours.
• A GP can rule out physical causes and discuss support, including talking therapies where appropriate.
• Recovery generally requires changes to the demands themselves, not only to how someone copes with them.
• If exhaustion is accompanied by persistent low mood, seek professional support rather than waiting for it to pass.

• Ask about workload and control, not only about how the person feels.
• Avoid framing burnout as a personal resilience problem.
• Support practical changes where you have any influence over them.
• Encourage a GP conversation if symptoms persist or worsen.

• NHS — Stress
• NHS Talking Therapies (England)
• NHS — Find a GP
• Samaritans — free, 24/7, call 116 123

• WHO — Burn-out an occupational phenomenon (ICD-11)
• WHO — Mental health at work
• NICE NG222 — Depression in adults