Burnout in healthcare: risk factors and solutions

Burnout is a state of physical and emotional exhaustion. It can leave those experiencing it feeling frustrated, angry, disengaged from their job, and unable to perform at their best. Some people may also develop headaches, poor sleep, and start relying on unhealthy habits to cope.

While burnout can affect people in any industry, it is particularly prevalent in healthcare due to the need for staff to be constantly focused on the needs of others.

This report from the Society of Occupational Medicine explores the signs of potential burnout, suggests ways NHS organisations can prevent burnout in their staff, and offers practical advice for supporting somebody already experiencing it.

It includes five case studies featuring NHS staff who experienced burnout, the different approaches taken by their employers, and the outcome of their situation.