For many organisational psychologists, including plenty of researchers, the term "burnout" could easily be replaced with one of a dozen other psychological constructs, including stress, disengagement, dissatisfaction, or intention to quit. In other words, it’s seen as little more than an indicator of a suboptimal work experience.

But while those who face unpleasant work conditions are likely to report higher scores on burnout measures, burnout is "more than a feeling": it has the potential to develop into a serious condition. People with high levels of burnout symptoms are also likely to show a concerning set of physical illnesses, cognitive problems, and emotional difficulties. Burnout can be debilitating, and its effects can last for months or even years.

Burnout isn’t rare, and its effects aren’t limited to a handful of individuals. If one person has burned out, chances are high that other workers are also burning out due to the same psychosocial hazards. Burnout falls within the Australian workers’ compensation category of Mental Stress, a costly injury type that is growing faster than any other category, and which is associated with the most time away from work.

We need to do better at managing burnout, which means we need to understand it better.

Because burnout is poorly understood. We are held back by myths, misunderstandings, suppositions, and sacred cows. Despite a high degree of consistency in research on burnout’s causes, experts continue to argue about burnout’s definitions, boundaries, and symptoms.

Our panel brings together experts with unique perspectives, research knowledge, practice expertise, and lived experience. We will facilitate a thoughtful discussion about the controversies and complexities of burnout, which will include such questions as:
• What kind of phenomenon is burnout?
• What are its symptoms and effects?
• How can you tell if someone is burned out?
• Who faces a high risk of burning out?
• What should we be doing more of to stop people from burning out?

Audience members will be invited to contribute to the discussion via polls conducted throughout the session as well as opportunities to ask the panel questions and, time permitting, to contribute their own insights and perspectives. The result will be a nuanced exploration of burnout that will broaden understanding and encourage everyone present to challenge their own beliefs and assumptions.