Brazil burnout leave cases increase significantly since 2021

Official data from the Brazilian Ministry of Social Security reveals a sharp rise in burnout-related leaves. The number of social security benefits granted for burnout jumped from 823 in 2021 to 7,595 in 2025.

In 2025, total leaves for mental and behavioral disorders reached 546,254, representing a 15.66% increase over 2024. These figures specifically account for temporary disability leaves exceeding 15 days paid by the INSS.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) under the CID-11 classification, burnout is an occupational phenomenon resulting from unmanaged chronic workplace stress. It is characterized by three dimensions: feelings of exhaustion, mental distance or negativism toward one's job, and reduced professional efficacy.

Clinical experts note that symptoms often include physical and mental fatigue, insomnia, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, and irritability. Factors contributing to the condition include excessive workload, harassment, lack of support, and low autonomy.