For GPs

Burnout recognised as an occupational phenomenon

 

In May 2019, the World Health Organisation (WHO) included burnout in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD–11) as an occupational phenomenon.

The WHO defines burnout as a set of symptoms associated with chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. Although workplace burnout is not classified as a medical condition, its impact can have adverse effects on the physical and mental health of an individual.

It is essential that GPs along with other health practitioners are able to identify and manage common signs and symptoms relating to workplace burnout, characterised by:

• feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion
• increased feeling of stress and pressure at work
• reduced professional efficacy.

The effects of preventing workplace burnout, including a discussion on the use of resilience strategies, was published in the June 2018 edition of InPsych and can viewed on the Australian Psychological Society website.

You can also listen to a podcast on workplace burnout, which includes a discussion on its causes and prevention, by visiting the Black Dog Institute website.