What is burnout?
Burnout is much more than temporary fatigue. According to Wikipedia, it is a work-related issue resulting from chronic stress that is not properly managed. Key features include energy depletion or exhaustion, mental distancing from work, cynicism or negative attitudes, and reduced professional efficacy.
In some European countries, health authorities recognize burnout more formally, while others consider its symptoms to overlap with depression.
Some believe that remote workers are less prone to burnout
Remote work offers clear advantages: no commuting, more flexible hours, greater autonomy. Yet burnout remains a real risk, even when working from home. Why?
Why remote workers can also experience burnout
- Blurred boundaries between work and personal life
At home, the separation often disappears. Without clear start and end times, you remain “connected” all the time. Work hours extend and personal life is constantly interrupted (Remote.com, Virtual Latinos). - Always being online: digital presenteeism
Implicit expectations of constant availability can lead to overload (Wikipedia). - Isolation and loneliness
Many miss informal office interactions. Their absence can heighten feelings of distance and stress (PsyHC Care, Panahi Counseling, New York Post). - Increased pressure and expectations
Without physical presence, some employers or remote workers feel the need to “prove themselves” more, leading to overwork (PsyHC Care, AllRemote.jobs). - Technology overload and video call fatigue
Excessive video calls lead to physical tension such as headaches, neck and eye strain, and mental fatigue (Wikipedia). - Internal pressure: perfectionism and impostor syndrome
High self-expectations, wanting to do everything perfectly, or fear of not measuring up increases burnout risk (Remote.com).
How to recognize a remote worker experiencing burnout
- Physical and emotional exhaustion: constant fatigue even after rest, sleep problems, headaches, digestive issues (Akiflow, Wifisofa, Remotica).
- Decreased motivation and productivity: tasks take longer, procrastination, more mistakes, loss of meaning (Remote.com, Akiflow, Ampliz, Remotica).
- Difficulty disconnecting: checking emails early or late, work thoughts even during breaks (Akiflow, Ampliz).
- Poor work-life balance and neglected environment: messy workspace, neglected plants, piles of laundry (Remote.com).
- Emotional irritability or withdrawal: sharper reactions, cynicism, distancing from colleagues (People Matters, Open Privilege, Ampliz, Remotica).
- Neglect of self-care: skipping meals, avoiding exercise, increased alcohol or substance use (Panahi Counseling, Remotica).
- Feeling of abandonment or loss of purpose: feeling no longer useful or connected to the team (AllRemote.jobs, New York Post, Remotica).
- Quiet cracking: a silent process where the person keeps working but struggles internally (Business Insider).
Additional observation: declining social skills
A recent survey shows that 25% of remote workers notice a decline in social skills such as eye contact or speaking up. 20% report worsened mental well-being, 66% cite social isolation, and 57% mention loneliness (New York Post).
Summary:
Burnout is a complex physical, emotional, and professional exhaustion. Remote work, despite its benefits, can increase risk due to blurred boundaries, isolation, technology overload, constant availability, and internal pressures.
A compassionate word to conclude
You may recognize yourself, or someone around you. Don’t let the signs accumulate. Small concrete actions can help:
- Set clear work and rest times.
- Take regular breaks and truly disconnect.
- Maintain contact, even virtually.
- Remember that taking rest is not weakness, but strength.
If the burden becomes too heavy, talk about it, structure your days, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. You deserve time, space, and care, even away from your screen.