Definition

Burnout syndrome is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, particularly work-related stress. It's characterized by emotional exhaustion, cynicism or detachment, and reduced sense of accomplishment. Burnout affects physical health, increasing risk of cardiovascular disease, insomnia, depression, and immune dysfunction.

Why It Matters

Burnout is epidemic, especially among healthcare workers, caregivers, and high-stress professions. It significantly impacts quality of life, relationships, work performance, and physical health. Addressing burnout requires comprehensive interventions addressing workload, boundaries, self-care, stress physiology, and lifestyle factors.

Related Conditions

Fatigue Depression Anxiety Insomnia Adrenal Dysfunction

Related Modalities

Lifestyle Medicine Botanical Medicine Clinical Nutrition Mind Body Medicine

Frequently Asked Questions

Stress involves too much—too many demands, too much pressure. Burnout involves not enough—not enough energy, not enough motivation, not enough caring. Stress feels like drowning in responsibilities; burnout feels like running on empty. Burnout requires more than stress management—it requires fundamental life restructuring.

Recovery requires addressing root causes: setting boundaries, reducing workload, seeking support, prioritizing rest and self-care, reconnecting with purpose and values, treating physical symptoms (adaptogens, sleep support, nutrition), therapy or counseling, and potentially making significant life or career changes.