Preventing Burnout Through Wellness and An Attitude of Gratitude

Burnout can hit like a hammer, but more often builds gradually. It is a condition with various definitions, but perhaps the best is “an erosion of the soul caused by a deterioration of one’s values, dignity, and spirit.” (1, 2) Three classic features of burnout are exhaustion, lack of personal accomplishment, and depersonalization.(1, 3) Overall, burnout is not infrequent among US physicians, with estimated rates between 4 5%-54%.(1) A recent American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI) survey of a random sample of 1,035 fellows and members evaluated burnout rates within the specialty.(1) Of 138 respondents (a 13% response rate), 35% reported burnout.(1) While it is encouraging that Allergists/Immunolog ists appear to have a lower rate of reported burnout than non-selected physicians, the impact of burnout remains large, because it is associated with underproductivity, depression, a lack of fulfillment, and even suicide.(1, 3) It is important that every clinician realize the warning signs of burnou t.
Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Tags: Perspective Source Type: research