Burnout and Psychological Issues in Substance Misuse Professionals
Author Information
Author(s): Oyefeso Adenekan, Clancy Carmel, Farmer Roger
Primary Institution: St George's, University of London
Hypothesis
The study aimed to determine the prevalence, pattern, and predictors of burnout and psychological morbidity among substance misuse professionals.
Conclusion
Substance misuse professionals experience high rates of psychological morbidity and burnout, indicating a greater vulnerability compared to other health professionals.
Supporting Evidence
- 82% of substance misuse professionals reported psychological morbidity.
- 33% experienced high emotional exhaustion.
- 17% reported high depersonalisation.
- 36% had diminished personal accomplishment.
- High levels of alienation and tension predicted burnout.
Takeaway
This study found that many people who help others with substance problems feel very stressed and burned out, which means they need more support.
Methodology
A cross-sectional mail survey using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) to assess psychological morbidity and burnout.
Potential Biases
Social desirability bias may have influenced self-reported data.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits causal conclusions, and non-response bias may affect results.
Participant Demographics
Mean age of respondents was 38 years, with 57% female; included various occupational groups such as nurses, social workers, and drug/alcohol counselors.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 76–87 for psychological morbidity; 95% CI = 27–40 for emotional exhaustion.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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