Depression, grief and burnout: What do these terms mean?
What does burnout mean?
In ICD-11, WHO describes burnout as an occupational phenomenon resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It is not classified there as a separate medical condition. Everyday use of the word is often broader. [1][2]
General information for adults. Not medical or psychotherapeutic advice; not a substitute for examination, diagnosis or treatment.
Sources & editorial status
- WHO: Burnout as an occupational phenomenon ↗
WHO explanation of ICD-11 classification: burnout in its occupational context. Primary source. Accessed: 29 October 2026.
- IQWiG: What is burnout? ↗
Patient information explaining burnout terminology and its distinction from other conditions. Accessed: 29 October 2026.
Compiled from an existing article: 31 October 2026. Source comparison in the article: 29 October 2026. Prepared with AI assistance; independent medical review is pending. Editorial compilation; independent medical expert review has not taken place.
Editorial responsibility: Mario V.W.B.R. Obst. Known limitations and the use of each source are explained alongside the reference. A source-comparison date is not the publication date of the original source.