It's increasingly common to hear about Burnout in the context of workers' mental health. More than just a "diagnosis", this syndrome reflects an alarming reality. According to Brum (2024), the number of workers taking leave due to Burnout syndrome has increased by an impressive 1,000% since 2014, with a significant jump between 2020 and 2023.
The National Institute of Social Security (INSS) reported 421 benefits related to Burnout last year, underlining the seriousness of the problem.
This article aims to demystify the concepts behind this condition that goes far beyond "normal" work-related tiredness. In addition, I want to offer insights that will help you understand how Burnout develops and how to prevent it. After all, understanding is the first step to taking action.
What Does Burnout Mean?
The word "Burnout" in English, according to the Oxford Languagesliterally means "the reduction of a fuel or substance to nothing by use or combustion". In human terms Ministry of Health defines the syndrome as "an emotional disorder marked by extreme exhaustion, stress and physical fatigue resulting from stressful work situations that demand high competitiveness or responsibility."
Between the lines of these definitions lies the essence of Burnout: a process of total and irreversible exhaustion. Below, I present five crucial aspects that illustrate this phenomenon:
- Complete Consumption: Just as fuel runs out, burnout drains a person's emotional, physical and mental capacities.
- Transformation into Waste: As the fuel turns to ash, the individual enters a state of apathy, loss of productivity and well-being.
- Inefficiency: When the fuel runs out, the machine stops. It's the same for Burnout sufferers.
- Gradual process: Small accumulations of wear and tear lead to total exhaustion.
- Lack of replacement: Just as a machine without maintenance breaks down, a human being without balance and rest also collapses.
We will explore these dynamics through real cases that illustrate the silent progression and devastating impacts of Burnout.
Case 1: The Invisible Wear and Tear of Everyday Life
One client reported persistent tiredness and a lack of interest in pleasurable activities, despite having free time after work. Her refuge was the sofa, where she spent hours on her mobile phone. At work, she faced excessive workloads and a toxic environment, aggravated by inhumane daily commutes on crowded public transport.
The Burnout Process
- Initial stage: Tiredness was initially perceived as something normal in the face of work pressure.
- Pleasure Commitment: Over time, she had no energy for hobbies. The mobile phone became an ineffective escape.
- Disconnection and demotivation: The gruelling routine at work and in transport drained his last emotional reserves.
Analysing
This case shows how Burnout is multifactorial, involving not only work, but also neglected elements such as commuting and unhealthy collective environments.
Case 2: The Illusion of Rapid Recovery
Another client, diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), faced a severe anxiety crisis at work and was taken off work for 30 days. Although her symptoms temporarily improved, she returned to the same stressful environment and the burnout persisted.
The Burnout Cycle
- Crisis: The client has reached breaking point after years of accumulated wear and tear.
- Temporary Stabilisation: The withdrawal reduced the most intense symptoms, but it was only a superficial relief.
- Symptoms return: Without structural changes at work or in their personal lives, the cycle of burnout was reactivated.
Analysing
This case shows that Burnout requires a deep and integrated approach, going beyond temporary solutions. Recovering requires changes in the environment, replacement practices and an understanding of the syndrome.
The Hidden Truth: What Goes Beyond Work
Burnout is not just about overwork. It's about:
- Multifactorial wear: Toxic environments, psychological pressures and a lack of quality time all contribute to burnout.
- No Replacement: Rest is neglected, and passive practices (such as social networking) don't renew energy.
- Invisible Factors: Such as long journeys and collective stress.
- Disconnection with Internal Needs: Ignore warning signs and prioritise productivity.
To deeply understand how these stages affect your life, the Maslach Burnout Inventory™ (MBI) is a widely recognised scientific tool.
This assessment is carried out under the guidance of a psychologist or psychiatrist:
- Identify which stage of Burnout you are in.
- Understand what factors are contributing to burnout.
- Plan personalised intervention strategies.
If you're experiencing signs of burnout or want to prevent burnout, an MBI could be the first step towards transforming your routine. With the support of a professional, you'll receive clear and effective guidance to regain your balance.
Influential? Only if it's about self-care, self-knowledge and some truths that therapy doesn't hide.
I'm a psychologist who creates content for those who prefer depth to performance. Here, mental health isn't a trend: it's a priority.
If you've come this far, it wasn't by chance. Stay. Read. Reflect. Or come back whenever you want, the door is always open.
By Andrea Cruz | Updated 21/01/2025
