Short answer: Burnout is emotional exhaustion, cynicism and reduced performance after prolonged work or caregiving load. Rest eases it temporarily; unless the pattern that created the load changes, it returns. Recovery starts with changing that pattern.
Symptoms
- Waking tired, not recovering at weekends
- Cynicism and detachment from work
- Headaches, muscle tension, stomach complaints
- Forgetfulness, poor concentration
- Withdrawing socially
Burnout vs depression
Burnout is tied to a specific load and eases when it is reduced; depression spreads across all areas of life. Prolonged burnout can turn into depression, so early action matters.
Five recovery steps
- Write down the load: what can you drop or delegate?
- Set boundaries: notifications off after hours.
- Do not negotiate sleep and movement.
- Spread short breaks through the day.
- If nothing changes in four weeks, talk to a specialist.
