Condition information
Burnout
Burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion from chronic workplace or caring stress. It's not yet a formal diagnosis, but it's a recognised occupational phenomenon (WHO) — and recovery is possible with the right support.
Common experiences
- Exhaustion that sleep doesn't fix
- Cynicism, detachment, or 'just going through the motions'
- Reduced sense of professional effectiveness
- Dreading work — Sunday-night anxiety
- Physical symptoms — headaches, gut issues, frequent illness
- Difficulty switching off — work intrudes into evenings, weekends
- Loss of meaning or pride in what used to matter
Clinical notes
Australian context: About 1 in 5 Australian workers report severe burnout symptoms. Source.
Clinical coding reference: DSM-5: — · ICD-11: QD85
This page is general information only. It is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A registered psychologist or doctor can help work out what is happening in your situation.
Questions people often ask
Is burnout the same as depression?
They overlap but aren’t identical. Burnout is specifically tied to occupational stress and tends to lift when the work context changes. Depression is broader and pervasive. Some people have both. Assessment helps clarify what’s what.
Do I need to change jobs?
Sometimes — but often not. Sustainable recovery involves recovering capacity, re-evaluating boundaries, and (where workable) adjusting the role or the workplace. We help you think it through clearly.
Is my employer's EAP enough?
EAP sessions are a good starting point and often free. If your burnout is moderate-to-severe, you’ll likely benefit from a longer engagement than EAP typically funds — and we can help bridge from EAP into ongoing care.
Need help deciding what to do next?
Reception can help you choose the right appointment type or clinician. If you feel unsafe or at immediate risk, use the urgent help page first.