Conditions · Occupational
Burnout — WHO classification and what to do about it
Burnout as an occupational phenomenon, distinct from depression — and how to think about treatment.
World Health Organization6 min read
WHO's official position is that burnout is an occupational phenomenon — exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced efficacy at work — not a medical condition. The distinction matters because the leverage points are structural (workload, autonomy, fairness) more than individual.
Useful framing for anyone whose 'burnout' is actually depression, anxiety, or chronic understaffing in disguise.
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A note on this article
Mental Hum publishes general education, not medical advice. If something here reflects your own experience, please consider speaking to a clinician. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.