Burnout Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Ways to Cope

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognized burnout as a phenomenon linked to professional activity, but not as a separate medical diagnosis.

Historical context

The term “burnout” was first introduced by psychiatrist Herbert Freudenberger in 1974. He described his observations of fellow healthcare professionals who suffered from exhaustion and cynicism due to constant overload and emotional pressure. Later, this phenomenon was studied in detail by psychologist Christina Maslach, who developed the Maslach Burnout Inventory, one of the most widely used tools for diagnosing burnout.

Interestingly, even earlier in literature, similar states were described. For example, 19th-century physicians often complained of “nervous exhaustion,” and in Japanese culture, the term “karoshi” (death from overwork) became established, highlighting the scale of the problem. In today’s world, where the pace of life and digital load are increasing, this concept is more relevant than ever.

What is burnout syndrome

According to the American Psychiatric Association, burnout manifests itself in three key areas:

Emotional exhaustion — a feeling of fatigue and emptiness that does not go away even after rest.
Cynicism and detachment — reduced interest in work, feelings of indifference, or irritability.
Reduced effectiveness — a sense that efforts are useless and work brings no results.

Life example: Laura, 35, a project manager, noticed she had become irritable and even simple tasks left her exhausted. In the evenings she felt so drained that she could not spend time with her family. At some point, she realized the cause was not weakness but chronic stress at work.

Cultural differences in the perception of burnout

The perception of burnout varies significantly across countries:

Japan: the problem of overwork is so acute that the term “karoshi” exists. The government is actively implementing programs to reduce overtime.
USA: the focus is on individual responsibility: meditation, stress-management training, and corporate wellness programs.
Europe: in Northern European countries, greater attention is given to work–life balance, and burnout levels are lower than in more competitive societies.
Ukraine and CIS countries: traditionally burnout was underestimated and perceived as “laziness,” but in recent years the topic has become widely discussed in media and academic circles.

Life example: Sergey, an IT specialist, shared that in his company overtime was considered “normal.” Only after several colleagues took extended sick leave did management revise schedules and implement flexible work formats.

Causes of burnout

Burnout is rarely linked only to personal traits. More often, it is the result of a combination of external and internal factors:

Constant overload and high responsibility.
Lack of control over work processes.
Absence of recognition and support.
Conflicts in the team.
Poor work–life balance.

According to Mayo Clinic, even people passionate about their work are at risk of burnout if their workload becomes chronic.

Symptoms that are hard to ignore

Burnout does not appear immediately — it accumulates gradually, and the first signals often seem minor. Over time, however, they become a noticeable part of everyday life.

Emotional signs

Mornings may begin with the feeling that energy has already run out before even opening the laptop. Joy from favorite activities fades, and each work email sparks irritation. Even simple tasks seem overwhelming, and interest in colleagues and projects declines.

Physical manifestations

Sleep stops being restorative: one may toss and turn all night or, conversely, oversleep, yet still feel drained. Headaches and digestive issues become constant companions. Chronic fatigue follows even into weekends.

Behavioral signals

Tasks are increasingly postponed, and social interaction is avoided. Work mistakes pile up like a snowball, affecting both small details and major projects. Gradually, the desire arises to “disappear” from professional and even personal life.

Studies published in PubMed show that chronic stress also impacts biological levels — people with burnout often present elevated cortisol levels, the stress hormone.

Life example: Mary, a school teacher, admitted that every morning before class she felt rising anxiety. The school bell no longer brought joy — it felt like the start of a marathon she could not run. After consulting a specialist and adjusting her schedule, she managed to regain control of her condition.

Why the consequences should not be underestimated

Ignoring burnout signs is dangerous — the condition rarely resolves “on its own.” It affects not only mood but also health, career, and even society as a whole.

For health: constant strain weakens the immune system and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and chronic inflammation.
For career: mistakes and declining productivity undermine professional reputation, while motivation to learn and develop disappears.
For personal life: irritability and fatigue cause conflicts, leaving little energy for loved ones.
For society: mass burnout reduces the efficiency of entire sectors — from healthcare to education and IT.

Life example: John, a doctor from London, shared that after several years of endless hospital shifts, he felt complete indifference toward patients. This hurt not only his career but also the quality of care he provided. Only by joining a support program for young doctors did he manage to restore his energy and return to his profession with a new perspective.

Modern challenges

Today, burnout has taken new forms. Digital technologies, which were meant to make work easier, often create additional pressure. Constant notifications, online meetings, and a culture of being “always available” blur the lines between home and office. Many now complain of “digital burnout” — fatigue not so much from work itself, but from endless online presence.

Statistics and facts about burnout

Burnout has long become a global problem, as confirmed by research data:

According to a Gallup survey, 76% of employees have experienced burnout at least once, and about 28% suffer from it “often” or “very often.”
Mayo Clinic studies show that up to 50% of physicians display signs of burnout, particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The American Teachers Association reports that nearly 60% of educators experience burnout symptoms, including chronic fatigue and loss of interest in their profession.
In the IT sector, despite flexible schedules and high salaries, about 40% of specialists face burnout due to constant stress, high competition, and deadline pressure.
In social services and volunteer work, the rate is even higher — up to 70% — due to constant exposure to others’ pain and problems.

These numbers show that burnout does not depend solely on profession or income level. Each sector has its risks: doctors and teachers face overload and emotional strain, IT specialists face pressure from deadlines and constant availability, while service workers face routine and lack of recognition.

Life example: Helen, a young physician, admitted feeling “empty” after long shifts. Her colleague in IT described another type of exhaustion — endless online meetings and unrealistic deadlines. Despite different professions, they shared the same sense of burnout.

Research from WebMD shows that employees working from home sometimes burn out faster due to a lack of clear role separation.

How to cope with burnout

There is no universal solution that works for everyone. However, research and expert experience highlight several helpful approaches:

Establishing a balance between work and personal life.
Regular rest and physical activity.
Seeking support from colleagues, friends, and family.
Discussing workload redistribution with management.
Consulting a professional — a psychotherapist or psychologist.

Modern companies are increasingly introducing prevention programs: “mental health days,” flexible schedules, and access to psychologists. In Sweden and the Netherlands, such initiatives are supported at the state level.

According to Harvard Health, an important step is recognizing the problem and being ready to take action, rather than ignoring the body’s signals.

Author’s opinion: Burnout syndrome should not be seen only as a problem of “laziness” or “weakness.” It is a systemic phenomenon, tied to work organization and societal culture, where efficiency is often valued more than health.

Question: Can burnout be completely cured?
Answer: Symptoms can be significantly reduced, but lifestyle and working conditions must be addressed.

Question: Is it the same as depression?
Answer: No, although some symptoms are similar. Depression is a clinical diagnosis, while burnout is specifically related to professional activity.

Question: Do vacation and rest help?
Answer: Yes, but if working conditions remain unchanged, symptoms quickly return.

Question: Why is burnout more common in some countries?
Answer: This is linked to cultural factors: the value placed on overtime, attitudes toward rest, and the level of social support.

How do you define your boundaries between work and personal life?
Have you noticed whether social expectations or your country’s culture influence your stress levels?
What brings you the most energy in your daily life?

Conclusion

Burnout syndrome is not weakness or temporary “laziness,” but a serious condition requiring attention. Recognizing the problem is the first step toward change. Self-care, communication, and professional support can help restore balance and energy. It is important to understand that cultural and workplace practices influence burnout levels differently, and the experience of other countries can serve as an example.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a specialist. If you experience symptoms, consult a psychologist or physician.

Burnout Syndrome: Why It Happens and How to Cope