Burn-out as an "occupational phenomenon"

The World Health Organization (WHO) has for the first time recognised "burn-out" in its International Classification of Diseases (ICD), which is widely used as a benchmark for diagnosis and health insurers.

WHO defines burn-out as "a syndrome conceptualised as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed."

"Burn-out refers specifically to phenomena in the occupational context and should not be applied to describe experiences in other areas of life," according to the classification.

The syndrome was characterised by:

1. Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; 
2. Increased mental distance from one's job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job; and 
3. Reduced professional efficacy.

"This is the first time burnout has been included in the classification," WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic said.