Stop Calling It Stress: The Real Definition of Burnout

Burnout vs stress explained: what is burnout, real job burnout symptoms, and emotional exhaustion in everyday life Why this episode matters: a science-based burnout definition (ICD-11, Maslach) plus practical workplace mental health and burnout recovery tips Walk away able to spot the true signs of burnout vs stress—and know exactly what small steps to take next

What You'll Learn:

• Understand the real, research-backed definition of burnout vs stress, including how the WHO and ICD‑11 classify occupational burnout
• Recognize the three core dimensions of burnout—emotional exhaustion, depersonalization/cynicism, and reduced professional efficacy—using concrete, real‑life examples
• Quickly tell the difference between normal, short‑term stress and chronic burnout so you can respond appropriately instead of pushing through
• Spot early signs of job burnout symptoms in yourself and others at work before they escalate into full burnout syndrome
• Use a simple reflection exercise to write down and organize the key ideas from this episode so they’re easier to remember and act on
• Identify one specific area of your current work or life where the burnout framework clearly applies, instead of vaguely saying you’re “just stressed”
• Choose and commit to one tiny, realistic action you can take this week to support burnout recovery and protect your workplace mental health
• Challenge 4 common misconceptions about burnout so you can talk about it accurately with colleagues, managers, and health professionals