Table 1 Diagnostic criteria for stress-induced exhaustion disorder (SED) according to the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare.

From: Plasma levels of S100B and neurofilament light chain protein in stress-related mental disorders

A. Physical and mental symptoms of exhaustion for at least 2 weeks. The symptoms have developed in response to one or more identifiable stressors present for at least 6 months

B. The clinical picture is dominated by markedly reduced mental energy, as manifested by reduced initiative, lack of endurance, or increased time needed for recovery after mental effort

C. At least four of the following symptoms have been present, nearly every day, during the same 2-week period

 Concentration difficulties or impaired memory

 Markedly reduced capacity to tolerate demands or to work under time pressure

 Emotional instability or irritability

 Sleep disturbance

 Marked fatigability or physical weakness

 Physical symptoms such as aches and pains, palpitations, gastrointestinal problems, vertigo, or increased sensitivity to sound

D. The symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in occupational, social, or other important respects

E. The symptoms are not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g., a drug of abuse, a medication) or a physical illness/injury (e.g., hypothyroidism, diabetes, infectious disease)

  1. Criteria A–E must be fulfilled to diagnose SED.