Occupational Burnout: When Work Becomes Overwhelming

Burnout, a term coined by Herbert Freudenberger in 1974, describes a state of physical and mental exhaustion often linked to job-related stress. It is characterized by exhaustion, depersonalization, and a lack of efficacy. While not officially recognized in the DSM in the U.S., some countries classify it as a medical condition. Christina Maslach developed a tool to measure burnout, revealing its prevalence across various professions, not just those involving direct human interaction. Factors like workload, control, and social support influence burnout, which is more common in young, unmarried individuals. Companies are now addressing burnout by improving work conditions and promoting work-life balance.

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