The syndrome arises as a result of exhausting work situations that require high competitiveness and responsibility.
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Excessive tiredness, stress and emotional exhaustion. Symptoms that publicist Isabella Ferraz, 25, said she experienced after returning to work face-to-face in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. Concerned for her health, she decided to see a doctor and, to her surprise, she was diagnosed with burnout syndrome.
“It was 2022 and just over a year ago. I came face to face after the pandemic and started coming home exhausted, stressed. It just got worse, the weekend came and I just wanted to sleep. After a few months later I decided to go to the doctor and she told me she had burnout,” she says.
An employee of an advertising agency, she says it took her a while to notice the signs of burnout syndrome.
“I thought these symptoms were just a consequence of the hectic day of the profession. I went months without realizing that I had this syndrome,” he recalls.
What is Burnout Syndrome?
Isabella’s report reflects a reality common to about 30% of workers in the country, according to a survey released by the National Association of Occupational Medicine (Anamt). This clinical disorder, however, is not limited to Brazil and is a global phenomenon.
For this reason, in January last year, burnout syndrome was recognized as a work-related mental health condition by the World Health Organization (WHO). Also known as occupational burnout syndrome, this psychological disorder affects not only the mind but the body as well.
According to information from the Ministry of Health, the symptoms that characterize this condition are extreme exhaustion, stress and physical exhaustion, which arise as a result of exhausting, highly competitive and responsible work situations. Again according to the file, the main triggering factor of this disease is precisely overwork.
What can trigger burnout?
Certain conditions in the workplace can trigger burnout syndrome. Between them:
- Overwork;
- harmful situations;
- Psychological insecurity;
- harassment;
- Toxic relationships with colleagues and managers;
- Huge pressure for results.
For Isabella, it was precisely the overwork added to the competitive environment that triggered the burnout syndrome.
“It was right after the pandemic and the lockdown. I think it contributed. There was a lot of work and everyone wanted to show their service. They were also afraid of losing their jobs. The environment became toxic,” she said.
Symptoms of burnout
As communicated by the Ministry of Health, Burnout Syndrome manifests itself through nervousness, psychological suffering and physical problems, such as abdominal pain, intense tiredness and dizziness. The main signs and symptoms that may be indicative of burnout syndrome are:
- Excessive tiredness, physical and mental;
- Frequent headache;
- Changes in appetite;
- Insomnia;
- Difficulty concentrating;
- Feelings of failure and insecurity;
- Constant negativity;
- Feelings of defeat and hopelessness;
- Feelings of incompetence;
- Sudden mood swings;
- Isolation;
- Fatigue;
- High pressure;
- Muscle aches;
- gastrointestinal problems;
- Change in heartbeat.
How to deal with burnout
As recommended by the Ministry of Health, publicist Isabella Ferraz has resorted to psychotherapy to treat Burnout Syndrome. You have already noticed improvements in your condition.
“I’ve improved a lot since starting the therapy sessions. I feel calmer and I’m coping better with the situation. The symptoms have also reduced a lot,” she says.
The Ministry of Health recommends as a treatment for Burnout:
- Psychotherapy, with psychologists and psychiatrists;
- Practice of physical exercises;
- Balanced diet;
- Adequate sleep routine.
How to avoid burnout
To prevent Burnout Syndrome it is essential to adopt strategies that reduce stress and pressure in the workplace. See some tips below:
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Set limits – Define clear boundaries between work and personal life, with adequate rest and leisure times;
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Practice self-care – Make time for physical and mental health care, through exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep and hobbies;
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Set priority – Organize activities efficiently, setting priorities and delegating responsibilities when necessary;
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Promote a healthy environment – Promote an organizational culture that values ​​the balance between personal and professional life, favoring breaks, moments of relaxation and mutual support among employees.
Source: Terra

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.