The Australian research that's rewriting the book on burnout – and the five red flags to watch for

Burnout is frequently confused with depression but research is underway to classify it as a mental health condition in its own right. (ABC News: Emma Machan)

Burnout seems to be affecting so many people right now it is surprising the experience is not officially recognised in Australia as a medical or mental health condition.

That may be about to change. Australian researchers are building a case to change the status of burnout so it ranks alongside psychological illnesses like anxiety or depression, with which burnout is frequently confused.