Physician burnout and symptom of anxiety and depression: Burnout in Consultant Doctors in Ireland Study (BICDIS)

Abstract

Background Burnout is a work related syndrome comprising three major dimensions: emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and reduced professional efficacy. It is recognised that burnout may be associated with psychopathological sequelae, such as symptoms of anxiety and depression. Aims This study aimed to examine the relationship between burnout and symptoms of depression and anxiety in senior doctors in Ireland. We examined personality traits as a mediating factor on burnout, in relation to work related stress among the participants. Methods This study was a national cross sectional survey of consultants. Data included basic demographic data, work-related data, burnout as measured by the Maslach Burnout Inventory, personality traits, and symptoms of depression and anxiety from the Depressive Anxiety Stress Scale [DASS]. Results Results were obtained from 477 consultants, yielding a response rate 21.9%. Nearly half (42%) reported high burnout levels. Over one-quarter (25.8%) screened positive for depression and 13.8% for anxiety. After controlling for gender and age, depressive symptoms were associated with high levels of emotional exhaustion (p<0.001) and a higher clinical workload, and stress with cynicism and reduced professional efficacy (p<0.001). Conclusions The this study reported a high level of work-related burnout, associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety in senior doctors. This is concerning, and strategies are required that consider the relationship between symptoms of depression/anxiety and burnout. Further research to evaluate strategies to ensure physician wellbeing and optimal delivery of patient care are required to address this serious problem.

Burnout in mental health services in Ireland during the COVID-19 pandemic

“…This close association between adverse mental health and burnout has been reported in other studies examining depression and anxiety. 18 As this study was cross-sectional, a cause–effect relationship cannot be determined. The finding of higher patient-related burnout (typically the last type to increase) in those with unchanged as opposed to deteriorated physical health, might at first glance seem surprising.…”

“…The association between intention to change job and burnout is well established. 15 , 18 This relationship is reciprocal, and it has been speculated that it may be mediated by organisational factors such as ineffective policies, inadequate workforce planning and recruitment, incompetent implementation planning and ineffective leadership. 18 Similarly, spending time outside of one's area of responsibilities can generate anxiety as well as a sense of inadequacy or lack of competence, and may be compensated for by increasing additional hours.…”

“… 15 , 18 This relationship is reciprocal, and it has been speculated that it may be mediated by organisational factors such as ineffective policies, inadequate workforce planning and recruitment, incompetent implementation planning and ineffective leadership. 18 Similarly, spending time outside of one's area of responsibilities can generate anxiety as well as a sense of inadequacy or lack of competence, and may be compensated for by increasing additional hours. Being aware about burnout, speaking about it, participating in support groups and increasing social capital in the workplace are protective factors from burnout and reduce the intention to leave.…”

Factors associated with suicide in physicians: a silent stigma and public health problem that has not been studied in depth

“…The study revealed a prevalence of 42%, and demonstrated that burnout was associated with lack of exercise and face-to-face contact with patients, despite the physicians having good salaries and a relatively low workload ( 19 ). In a secondary analysis, Crudden et al ( 20 ) found that approximately 26 and 14% of the study sample scored positively for depression and anxiety, respectively. They also showed that these symptoms were associated with high emotional exhaustion, reduced professional effectiveness, and increased work burden ( p < 0.001) ( 20 ).…”

“…In a secondary analysis, Crudden et al ( 20 ) found that approximately 26 and 14% of the study sample scored positively for depression and anxiety, respectively. They also showed that these symptoms were associated with high emotional exhaustion, reduced professional effectiveness, and increased work burden ( p < 0.001) ( 20 ).…”