Burnout syndrome in an international setting

Abstract

Burnout is a global concern, and work-related stress is recognized worldwide as a major challenge to workers' health and the functioning of their organizations. Epidemiological studies performed in western and developing countries have found a high prevalence of burnout syndrome and associated mental illness among health workers, teachers, caregivers, other professionals, and others. Unsatisfactory work may lead to long-Term emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and low levels of personal accomplishment. Emotional exhaustion is considered to be the most important dimension of burnout syndrome. Work-related stress can affect employee satisfaction, work productivity, and mental and physical health; it also can increase rates of absenteeism and affect family roles and function. Professional distress can provoke serious mental manifestations such as anxiety and depression disorders, leading to divorce, alcoholism, substance abuse and suicide. Perception of adverse psychosocial factors in the workplace may be related to an elevated risk of subsequent major depressive disorder. Burnout rates in society range from 2.4 to 72 %, whereas the prevalence of depressive symptoms is variable and may affect between 3 % and one third of workers. High staff turnover, increased absenteeism, and decreased productivity cause an elevated financial cost.