Burnout & Exhaustion

Burnout describes a state of persistent physical and emotional exhaustion resulting from chronic overload, usually in a work context. Those affected feel burned out, detached and markedly limited in their capacity to perform. An early medical assessment helps to identify conditions that require treatment and to initiate the right next steps.

Medically reviewed by Adi Zoabi, Approbation als Arzt.
Last reviewed on August 31, 2026. Updated as clinical guidelines change.

Overview

Burnout describes a state of profound physical and emotional exhaustion that usually develops over months as a result of sustained overload – often at work, but also through caregiving responsibilities or ongoing personal strain. Typical features include pronounced fatigue that is no longer sufficiently relieved by sleep, growing inner detachment from work, and the feeling of no longer being able to meet demands. Burnout is not a distinct diagnosis in the strict sense but is classified as a risk state; left unaddressed, it can progress into depression or other illnesses. This makes an early medical assessment all the more important: it clarifies whether an illness requiring treatment is present, whether a certificate of incapacity for work is appropriate, and which next steps should be considered. In the OpenClinic24 video consultation, you can have your symptoms assessed by a doctor promptly. Following medical assessment, a sick note, a private prescription or a recommendation for further treatment can be issued – without waiting rooms and without a long journey.

Common causes

Burnout usually arises from a prolonged imbalance between demands and opportunities for recovery. Common work-related triggers include a high workload, constant availability, lack of recognition, conflicts in the workplace or little control over one's own tasks. Personal circumstances also play a role: caring for relatives, the double burden of family and work, financial worries or major life events. Personal traits such as strong perfectionism, a pronounced sense of duty and difficulty setting boundaries further increase the risk. It is important that a doctor rules out physical causes of persistent exhaustion – such as thyroid dysfunction, anaemia, iron deficiency, infections or sleep disorders like sleep apnoea. Early depression can also initially present as feeling burned out. A careful medical history and, where appropriate, in-person laboratory testing help to identify such causes and treat them specifically.

When to see a doctor

Seek medical advice if exhaustion, sleep problems or inner tension persist for more than two weeks, if your capacity to perform is markedly reduced, or if you are only just managing to cope with everyday life. Recurring physical complaints without a clear cause – such as headaches, gastrointestinal symptoms or palpitations – should also be evaluated. Warning signs that call for a prompt medical appointment include persistent low mood, loss of interest, pronounced hopelessness, significant unintended weight loss, or increasing use of alcohol or sedatives to calm yourself. If you have suicidal thoughts, concrete plans to harm yourself, or no longer feel safe, call the emergency number 112 immediately or go to the nearest psychiatric emergency department. The German crisis helpline (Telefonseelsorge) is available free of charge around the clock on 0800 111 0 111.

Symptoms & Indications

Persistent exhaustion despite sufficient sleep Feeling burned out and inwardly empty Problems with concentration and memory Growing detachment or cynicism towards work Sleep problems and lack of recovery Irritability and inner tension Physical complaints such as headaches or muscle tension Declining performance at work and in daily life

Treatment Options

Initial medical consultation and structured assessment via video call
Evaluation of possible physical causes of exhaustion, where appropriate with a recommendation for laboratory testing in person
Advice on stress management, reducing workload and recovery periods
Recommendations on sleep hygiene and daily structure
Certificate of incapacity for work (sick note) following medical assessment
Referral pathway to psychotherapy or specialist follow-up care
In cases of accompanying depressive illness: information on medication options such as antidepressants, subject to medical assessment

Important Notes

The video consultation does not replace in-person psychiatric or psychotherapeutic treatment. It serves as an initial assessment, for sick notes in case of incapacity for work, and to guide you into appropriate care.
If you have suicidal thoughts, concrete plans to harm yourself, or are in acute danger, call the emergency number 112 immediately or go to the nearest psychiatric emergency department. The German crisis helpline (Telefonseelsorge) is available free of charge around the clock on 0800 111 0 111.
Persistent exhaustion can also have physical causes, such as thyroid dysfunction or anaemia. Additional in-person examinations by a doctor may be necessary.
Benzodiazepines and other controlled substances are not prescribed via the video consultation.

HOW IT WORKS

How OpenClinic24 works

STEP 01

Complete the questionnaire

Brief details about your symptoms

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STEP 02

Doctor connects with you

Video consultation within minutes

STEP 03

Receive your documents

Prescription, sick note or referral, digitally

Estimated wait

…

Online consultation

Video consultation with licensed doctors.

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Medical notice: Not a substitute for an in-person medical examination. The information on this page is intended for general guidance only. In an emergency, please call 112.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the video consultation for burnout cost, and will my insurance cover it?

Billing is provided as a private medical service according to the German fee schedule for physicians (GOÄ). Privately insured patients can usually submit the invoice to their private health insurer; reimbursement depends on the individual plan. Self-paying patients receive a transparent GOÄ invoice, with the amount depending on the type and scope of the consultation. Patients with statutory insurance may also use the service on a self-pay basis.

Can I get a sick note online for burnout?

In principle, yes. Following medical assessment in the video consultation, a certificate of incapacity for work can be issued if your symptoms justify it. The duration and any extension are decided by the doctor on a case-by-case basis. There is no entitlement to a sick note.

Is burnout the same as depression?

No, the terms do not mean the same thing. Burnout is considered a risk state resulting from chronic overload, whereas depression is a distinct illness that requires treatment. However, the symptoms overlap considerably, and untreated burnout can develop into depression. Distinguishing between the two is therefore a central part of the initial medical consultation.

How does the initial consultation for exhaustion work?

You book an appointment, complete a structured questionnaire about your symptoms in advance, and then speak with a doctor via video. During the consultation, your situation, possible causes and warning signs are assessed. Following the medical assessment, you receive a recommendation on how to proceed, such as a sick note, a private prescription or a referral pathway to psychotherapy or specialist treatment.