What is burnout? Most people think burnout is just about working too hard. Learn the real history of burnout and why your exhaustion might be more complex. Many professionals and founders identify burnout as the result of simple overwork or long hours. While workplace stress and exhaustion are undeniably part of the equation, the origins of this condition suggest a much deeper narrative. This video breaks down why the standard definition often misses the mark and how historical context changes our understanding of the phenomenon. If you are feeling overwhelmed, you are likely looking for answers on what is burnout and how to fix it. By examining the roots of these feelings, you can better identify the true causes of burnout in your own life. This perspective shift is essential for anyone trying to move beyond surface-level solutions for mental exhaustion. What's been your own experience regarding the causes of burnout? If you'd like to connect: https://www.behroozbehbod.com ---Important: Educational only, not personal medical advice. If you have concerning or worsening symptoms, please seek professional care. Opinions are my own and may not reflect affiliated organisations. References: 1. Freudenberger, H. J. 1974. “Staff Burn‐Out.” Journal of Social Issues 30, no. 1: 159–165. 10.1111/j.1540-4560.1974.tb00706.x; 2. A Conceptual Analysis of Psychological Burnout Among Nurses Providing Terminal Care. Kim S, Tak SH. Journal of Advanced Nursing. 2026;82(4):3997-4006. doi:10.1111/jan.17056; 3. Burnout, Depression, and Diminished Well-Being among Physicians. Guille C, Sen S. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2024;391(16):1519-1527. doi:10.1056/NEJMra2302878; 4. Working on the Edge: Stresses and Rewards of Work in a Front‐line Mental Health Service. Bowden GE, Smith JC, Parker PA, Boxall MJ. Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy. 2015 Nov-Dec;22(6):488-501. doi:10.1002/cpp.1912; 5. Prevalence of Burnout Among Physicians: A Systematic Review. Rotenstein LS, Torre M, Ramos MA, et al. JAMA. 2018;320(11):1131-1150. doi:10.1001/jama.2018.12777; 6. Personal risk factors associated with burnout among psychotherapists: A systematic review of the literature. Simionato GK, Simpson S. Journal of Clinical Psychology. 2018;74(9):1431-1456. doi:10.1002/jclp.22615.