Burnout has become a serious issue in today’s industrialized societies. According to a Gallup study, approximately 67% of employees experience burnout at least occasionally, while 23% report feeling burned out on a regular basis. The World Health Organization has officially recognized burnout in the International Classification of Diseases as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.
Burnout can manifest in various ways, but common symptoms include decreased energy, apathy, sleep disturbances, concentration problems, irritability, and a detached or cynical attitude toward work.
Among the free tools available to assess burnout, one of the most widely used and reliable is the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI). Developed in 2001, the OLBI was created as a free alternative to the Maslach Burnout Inventory, whose validity and cultural applicability have been questioned by many researchers.
Unlike other instruments, the OLBI focuses on two core dimensions of burnout:
This test is provided “as is.” Results should be interpreted with caution and should not be used to make any personal, clinical, or professional decisions. Please note that this test is intended for educational purposes only, and its content and outcomes do not constitute professional advice or diagnosis.
The OLBI is considered more universal. Unlike the MBI, which was primarily developed for the social services sector, the Oldenburg scale is applicable to any professional activity and evaluates both negative aspects and the level of engagement.
On the contrary, burnout most often affects the most responsible and engaged employees (those "passionate" about their work). Those who work half-heartedly rarely burn out. This condition is often referred to as an "ailment of high achievers."
In the early stages, yes, through a careful review of workload and boundaries. However, at more advanced stages of exhaustion and cynicism, a longer break is often required, as the familiar work environment itself may start to feel hostile.