Burnout

Overview

Burnout is a state of physical and emotional exhaustion caused by long-term, unmanaged stress, especially at work. It’s not a medical diagnosis, but it’s a serious problem that can affect your health and happiness.

Yes, burnout is very common. Studies suggest that millions of people around the world experience it, especially in high-pressure jobs.

Burnout can affect anyone who experiences prolonged stress at work, but it is most common among people in helping professions (like healthcare, teaching, social work), those with heavy workloads, and people who have little control over their work.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling drained and exhausted, both physically and emotionally
• Losing interest in your work or feeling cynical about it
• Finding it hard to concentrate or get things done
• Feeling irritable or impatient with colleagues, family, or friends

Symptoms in children

• Burnout is not typically used to describe children, but school-related stress can cause similar exhaustion – feeling tired, losing interest in schoolwork, or avoiding social activities.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, burnout might come from caregiving responsibilities or stress after retirement. Symptoms can include feeling constantly tired, losing motivation for hobbies, or feeling withdrawn from others.

Causes

Main causes

• Chronic stress at work, such as a too-heavy workload or long hours
• Feeling you have little control over your work or decisions
• Lack of support from managers or colleagues

Risk factors

• Working in a job with high demands and low rewards – like low pay, no recognition, or few breaks
• Having a personality that is very driven or perfectionistic
• Poor work-life balance, such as always being available by email or phone

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Call your local emergency number if you have thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
• Seek help the same day if you feel you cannot function or are in extreme distress.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Make a doctor’s appointment if exhaustion or negative feelings last for more than a few weeks and affect your daily life.
• See a healthcare provider if you have physical symptoms like frequent headaches, stomach problems, or trouble sleeping that you think may be stress-related.

Diagnosis

There is no one test for burnout. Your doctor will talk with you about your symptoms, work life, and overall health. They may use a questionnaire to understand how you are feeling.

Tests that may be done

• Your doctor may do a physical exam and run basic tests (like blood tests) to rule out other conditions that can cause fatigue, such as an underactive thyroid or anaemia.

What to expect at your appointment

The appointment will feel like a conversation. Your doctor will ask about your stress, sleep, mood, and daily life. They will want to help you figure out what is happening and how to feel better.

Treatment

Treatment for burnout focuses on reducing stress and helping you recover. A combination of self-care, changes at work or home, and professional support works best.

Self-care at home

• Take regular breaks during the day and use your vacation time.
• Set limits: learn to say no to extra tasks that push you too far.
• Make time for activities you enjoy, even if it’s just a short walk or a hobby.
• Prioritize sleep – aim for 7-9 hours a night.

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), to help you change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. If you develop depression or anxiety, medication might be considered, but this is a decision you and your doctor will make together.

When is surgery considered?

Not applicable.

Living with this condition

Living with burnout means taking things one step at a time. Give yourself permission to rest and recover. Focus on small, manageable tasks and celebrate small wins.

Lifestyle tips

• Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga.
• Stay connected with people you trust, even if you don’t feel like socialising.
• Create a work schedule that includes regular breaks and a clear end to your work day.

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Stay hydrated. Gentle exercise like walking, stretching, or swimming can boost your mood and energy without being too demanding.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Burnout can make you feel hopeless, anxious, or like you’re not good enough. These feelings are common, but they can also be a sign of depression. It’s important to talk to your doctor if you notice your mental health getting worse.

Prevention

Yes, burnout can often be prevented. The key is to manage stress early. Set boundaries, take regular breaks, and speak up if your workload is too much. Talk to your manager about what you need to work more sustainably.

Vaccines

Not applicable.

Screening programmes

No routine screening test exists, but many workplaces have wellbeing questionnaires or surveys to check on employee stress levels.

Complications

If left untreated

• Untreated burnout can lead to long-term health problems like major depression, anxiety disorders, and chronic fatigue.
• It can also affect relationships, cause absenteeism from work, and increase your risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.

Long-term outlook

The outlook is good if you take action. With rest, support, and changes to your work and life, most people recover fully. It may take time, but you can get back to feeling like yourself again.

Find support

International organisations

• World Health Organization (WHO) – Mental Health ↗

Local organisations

• Mind (UK) ↗ · United Kingdom
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) ↗ · United States

Helplines

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