The definition of burnout syndrome was originally provided by Herbert J. Freudenberger in 1974 and was described as "...a state of exhaustion resulting from failure, wear and tear, loss of energy and power, or unmet demands on the internal resources of a person."
If one views it as a physical and mental syndrome brought on by emotional breakdowns in everyday life and the surroundings, one can broadly tie it to issues like midlife crisis/status and career.
People who labour under demanding conditions over extended periods of time frequently develop burnout syndrome. In this instance, the person's symptoms include mental and physical exhaustion, emotional insensitivity, and motivational decline as a result of the demanding work schedule.
Burnout is a disorder brought on by an inability to handle stress that manifests in the physical, mental, and emotional domains. Research on burnout has shown that poor interpersonal connections, an overwhelming workload, and an individual's ability to manage stress are all associated with burnout.
Three symptoms are typical for burnout syndrome: depersonalisation, emotional weariness, and a lowered sense of self-worth. The individual feels unworthy, loses interest in their job or life, and finds it difficult to complete tasks linked to their job.
These days, burnout syndrome is a common psychological issue. This syndrome has a wide range of causes, but it is particularly prevalent among those who work in stressful circumstances. The symptoms of burnout syndrome include acute physical and emotional exhaustion, reduced motivation, hopelessness, and diminished performance at work.
An excessive workload is one of the primary causes of burnout syndrome. Employees must put in more effort and longer hours as the workload grows in order to stay ahead of schedule. This can eventually lead to severe exhaustion, tension, and boredom.
Burnout syndrome is most prone to strike those who are under stress and are subjected to stress on a regular basis.
When people are exposed to elements including a high workload, a stressful work environment, and job discontent, they are more likely to experience burnout syndrome.
This is the reason it is more prevalent in those who work in fields like health, education, social services, and consulting that demand a lot of face-to-face interaction with others.
But burnout syndrome can affect people in any line of employment, and it has nothing to do with the workplace specifically.
Burnout syndrome can also result from long-term stressful living situations, personal or family issues, or significant health issues.