Work Burnout: Recognize the Symptoms and How to Recover

Burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged work pressure without adequate recovery. It differs from ordinary tiredness, because a short rest is often no longer enough to restore your energy.

Symptoms of burnout can include feeling fed up with and cynical about your work, feeling you are no longer effective, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and even losing the motivation to start your day. Some people also experience physical complaints such as headaches or sleep problems.

To recover, try setting clear boundaries between work time and personal time, taking breaks during work, and communicating your workload to your manager or colleagues. Set aside time for activities you enjoy and get enough rest.

If the exhaustion feels increasingly heavy and begins to affect your mood, do not wait until your condition gets worse. You can consult a psychologist, including through the consultation service on DokterIN, to get support suited to your needs.