ABSTRACT
Burnout is especially common in caring professions such as healthcare, social work, and teaching, with a prevalence of up to 25% in these professions suggested by some research. The burnout sufferer dehumanises the person with whom they are interacting, and this leads to cold, callous behaviour and cynicism. Low income can be a factor, as demonstrated in a study of burnout among paediatric nurses. Substance misuse and addiction are strongly associated with occupational burnout. If burnout is recognised as a systemic problem, a problem which therefore requires a systemic solution, working conditions for doctors can be improved, retention rates improved, and job satisfaction increased, and this would ultimately result in better patient care. There are a number of factors that can contribute to occupational burnout, whatever the occupational environment. Some people are naturally predisposed to burnout due to their nature.
