What is burnout

Burnout in physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals is introduced through its common signs, causes, and early stages, alongside a distinction between burnout and compassion fatigue. Learners are guided to recognize symptoms such as exhaustion, irritability, poor concentration, anxiety before work, sleep problems, headaches, and digestive issues, and to understand that these experiences are widespread in clinical practice. The explanation uses the World Health Organization definition of burnout and Maslach’s three main features: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. It also outlines major contributors beyond heavy workload, including low autonomy, insufficient reward, lack of workplace support, unfairness, and value mismatch between clinicians and employers. The progression from an initial “honeymoon” phase into chronic stress and possible crisis is also described. Another key focus is how stress affects the nervous system, especially the imbalance between the fast-acting fight-or-flight response and the slower relaxation response. Practical reflection and simple exercises encourage learners to notice their own stress patterns and to intentionally build regular relaxation into daily routines.