According to the World Health Organization (WHO), burnout is an "occupational phenomenon" resulting from chronic workplace stress that hasn't been successfully managed. It is characterized by three main dimensions: 1) Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, where you feel physically and emotionally drained; 2) Increased mental distance from one’s job, often manifesting as feelings of negativism, cynicism, or detachment toward your work and colleagues; and 3) Reduced professional efficacy, where you feel incompetent or unable to accomplish tasks that were once manageable. Other common physical and mental signs include irritability, headaches, sleep disturbances (insomnia), and a lack of motivation or "spark" for your career. Burnout is distinct from general stress because it specifically targets your relationship with your work; in 2026, addressing it typically requires a combination of setting strict work-life boundaries, seeking organizational support, and prioritizing restorative rest.