Recognizing and Addressing Burnout

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, often in professional settings. Signs include chronic fatigue, cynicism, irritability, and reduced performance. Burnout reduces motivation and can lead to serious health consequences if untreated. Prevention involves balancing workload, taking regular breaks, and practicing self-care. It is essential to recognize early symptoms and seek support from peers, supervisors, or mental health professionals. Organizational changes such as workload redistribution and fostering a positive culture help combat burnout systematically. Recovery restores energy, focus, and enthusiasm for work and life.