Burnout syndrome is recognized as an occupational phenomenon in the International Classification of Diseases.

On January 1st 2022, following the new classification by the World Health Organization (WHO), Burnout has been recognized as an occupational phenomenon.

The syndrome is classified as “chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed”. It is characterized by the following symptoms: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job; and reduced professional efficacy.

The World Health Organization has evidenced that the Burnout Syndrome phenomenon is specifically associated with the occupational space, which places responsibility on the employer, and can't be applied to describe experiences in other areas of life.

In order to prove it, one will require documents such as medical statements and reports that will explain the issue in depth as well as the necessary time the employee should take away from work. One can then request a technical investigation alongside the Brazilian Social Security Institute (Instituto Nacional do Seguro Social- INSS), and a work-related accident report (Comunicação de Acidente de Trabalho - CAT) should also be completed.

In case a work leave is necessary, the time limit follows previous business protocols: salary should be kept the same if the employee is absent for 15 days or under; if absences exceed 15 days, the person in question can request compensation, or even retirement through disability benefits.

In order for businesses to mitigate financial and judicial risks, it's important that they develop ways to educate their workers on how to prevent the phenomenon, ensuring a safe and healthy workspace, respecting all current legislations regarding aspects such as the work journey, breaks, achievable goal, regular medical appointments.