What should you know about burnout in medicine?

Someone experiencing burnout may feel emotionally flat, cynical, or less able to connect with patients. They may struggle to absorb information, complete notes, or switch off after a shift. Sleep can become broken, fatigue can linger, and anxiety or irritability can spill into relationships. Loss of interest in sex may also occur. These signs are not specific to burnout; depression, anxiety, insomnia, thyroid problems, anaemia, and other conditions can look similar and deserve consideration by a clinician.

Make a private note of symptoms, shifts, sleep, and situations that make them worse. Tell a trusted colleague, supervisor, family member, primary-care doctor, or occupational-health professional. Ask for a realistic review of rota, workload, leave, supervision, and non-clinical demands. Use brief recovery habits that fit your day, such as regular meals, hydration, a wind-down routine, and a short walk. If concentration or alertness is impaired, seek advice before undertaking safety-critical work.

Arrange care when symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with clinical duties, relationships, sleep, or self-care. Seek urgent help if you may harm yourself, cannot remain safe, feel severely confused, or cannot carry out essential responsibilities. Difficulty Sleeping and Feeling Anxious can help you describe specific symptoms during a consultation.

What physical causes should we check? How can I tell burnout from depression? What treatment or talking support is suitable? How should I manage work while recovering?