What is burnout primarily characterized by?

Burnout is primarily characterized by physical and mental exhaustion, which results from prolonged stress, excessive workload, and lack of support in one's work environment. Individuals experiencing burnout often feel drained, unable to cope, and may find it difficult to complete daily tasks. It's a state of emotional, physical, and mental depletion that can affect both personal and professional life, decreasing an individual's engagement and overall well-being.

In contrast, increased job satisfaction and a strong feeling of motivation represent positive states typically associated with good mental health and high morale at work. Enhanced productivity levels would similarly reflect a healthy work environment and personal drive, which are not characteristics of burnout. Therefore, the defining feature of burnout is the profound sense of exhaustion, making the second choice the most accurate representation of this psychological phenomenon.