Burnout: chronic work-related stress

Burnout is a state of physical or mental collapse caused by work-related stress. While stress is situational, burnout is usually caused by repeated or prolonged stress or frustration.  

While the experience is unique to you, signs that you are burned out may include a lack of motivation, performance, identity and enthusiasm. 

Higher levels in nursing and midwifery 

If you think you may be at risk or experiencing burnout, you’re not alone. Compared to other health professionals, nurses and midwives are disproportionately impacted by burnout due to the nature of our work. In particular, we experience time pressures, lack of control over work tasks, shift work, lack of support and moral injury/distress. 

In 2021 the Australian Primary Nurses Association annual survey found: (42%) say they experience burnout sometimes, 27% say they feel burnt out very often, and 10% say they always feel burnt out at work.

Signs and symptoms 

Common indicators that you may be experiencing burnout include: 

• constant exhaustion
• social withdrawal
• cynicism
• loss of enthusiasm or even a sense of panic
• dread or anxious about going to work
• compassion fatigue or lack of empathy for patients.

You may notice changes in your sleep patterns and appetite, as well as frequent headaches, jaw clenching, teeth grinding, muscle tension, low immunity, and a higher incidence of illness. 

More worrying health concerns include increased blood pressure, palpitations, increased shortness of breath and gastrointestinal upset. 

An indicator that you are experiencing burnout may be that you are taking more sick leave or have become withdrawn at work.  

Your family, friends and colleagues may notice changes in yourself before you do. Be open to their concerns. Reflect on whether you’re feeling different or some of your behaviours have changed. 

Factors that increase our risk of burning out

Our susceptibility to burnout is increased if we:

• tend to self-criticise
• work and life are imbalanced,
• have inadequate outside support systems
• are idealistic or perfectionists
• expect unrealistic things of ourselves
• over commit
• sleep poorly
• use unhealthy methods to cope with stress.  

Healthy workplaces to help prevent burnout 

Burnout is an occupational issue. Employers and managers must commit to delivering safe, healthy and caring workplaces. There are, however, some things you can do to protect yourself.  

It’s important to remember that burnout is both preventable and curable. The earlier you seek support, the better the outcome for you. If you think you may be experiencing burnout, consider accessing some support – reach out to us. 

Preventing burnout – try these

Try these strategies to help prevent burnout: 

• Set boundaries; learn how to say ‘no’ 
• Rest and sleep enough
• Talk to friends or family about how you feel
• Leave your work at work – physically and mentally
• Take your breaks at work
• Set realistic expectations
• Focus on what you’ve achieved not what you didn’t do
• Exercise – find something you enjoy and do it regularly. 
• Reflect on your work and workplace culture – are you where you want to be?
• Take some time out to reflect, have a rest or holiday
• Review your work/life balance

References

• A multidisciplinary, cross-sectional survey of burnout and wellbeing in emergency department staff during COVID-19. E. Dixon, E, 2022, Australia’s Emerg Care
• The future of Australia’s nursing workforce: COVID-19 and burnout among nurses, K. Mannix, 2021, University of Melbourne.
• APNA Workforce Survey, 2021, Australian Primary Nurses Association.