Tell your boss, burnout is officially a medical diagnosis.

The International Classification of Diseases, or ICD-11, lists burnout as a real medical condition per the World Health Organization, CNN reported.

If someone is feeling exhaustion or no energy, mentally distancing yourself from the job, or have negative or cynical feelings about the workplace, as well as reduced effectiveness on the job, you could be diagnosed with being burned out.

The diagnosis applies to work-related causes, not general life situations.

But it may not be always the case. Doctors are being told to rule out adjustment disorder, anxiety disorders and mood disorders, according to CNN.

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Psychology Today also reminds readers there is a difference between burnout and stress.

While the acceptance of burnout as a diagnosis is new, the condition is not.

Psychologist Herbert Freudenberger was the first to study the condition and published an article in 1974, CNN reported. Hundreds of studies followed the years after the study's publication.

How can you combat the effects of burnout?

Psychology Today suggests:

  • Say no sometimes if you can.
  • Have a sense of purpose.
  • Enjoy the work you do.
  • Have an impact on others.
  • Take on difficult challenges.

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