Burnout syndrome is a psychological disorder caused specifically by working conditions. It is now classified as a disorder and is included in the new ICD-11 (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems).
It can also be related to a job or even the lack of one.
Burnout corresponds to exhaustion and a state of extreme emotional tension and chronic stress. In general terms, it is caused by working conditions that require intense physical, emotional and psychological involvement.
Among the main symptoms are
Of course, the symptoms can vary from person to person and the level of intensity.
However, it is important to always seek specialized medical help for assistance and diagnosis.
Furthermore, the investigative and diagnostic process is basically clinical, with answers to a psychometric questionnaire and a survey of the patient's history.
There is now talk of a burnout epidemic in the country. However, we need to evaluate the numbers and cases with caution, and understand that unequal social conditions are also a trigger for the occupational syndrome.
According to data from the Ministry of Social Security's National Institute of Social Security (INSS), in 2023, 421 people took time off work due to burnout. In fact, this is the highest number recorded in the last 10 years.
This was an increase of approximately 130% - compared to 2019 - which occurred mainly during and after the coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic.
Compared to the last decade, the increase has reached an impressive 1000%.
According to experts, the increase is due to two main factors:
It's also worth mentioning that there is still some confusion on the part of specialists in the field when it comes to making the correct diagnosis, as the symptoms can be confused with other syndromes, diseases and mental disorders.
However, according to the National Association of Occupational Medicine (ANAMT), around 40% of economically active people suffer from burnout, although not all cases are identified.
One of the main issues that people research in relation to burnout is treatment.
In general, support is provided through medication and therapy. But again, each person is different and it is essential to contact specialist doctors and psychologists for the right approach.
It is essential that people know about the syndrome, its symptoms and how to seek help. Individually, information is important to reduce the impact of burnout.
However, as a society, it is essential that we think collectively. And this is where an important step in the treatment and reduction of sick leave comes in, as well as the reduction of quiet quitting and great resignation.
Taking care of the work environment first, so that it isn't toxic or demanding too much work from employees, is one of, if not the biggest, contribution to this.
And when we talk about the work environment, we're talking about the people who make it what it is.
In other words, in a structure where the hierarchy is still mostly vertical, taking care of how leadership approaches work and teams is indispensable.
Looking carefully at the teams, and the relationships that take place on a daily basis, is what will make the difference between a healthy and happy environment and a toxic and stressful one, starting at the top, which is, in fact, the example for the entire structure.
And how can this be done? There are proven methodologies and training that contribute to organizational health, healthy work between teams and the transformation of leadership focused on command and control into humanized leadership.
Below are the best evaluated and applied in hundreds of companies worldwide. Even in Brazil, most of them have the Great Place to Work (GPTW) seal:
