Pandemic burnout: a consequential malady from the coronavirus. From the article:

On May 30, 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognized burnout as an occupational and multifactorial syndrome, worthy of attention as it is characterised by a rapid decline in psychophysical resources and deterioration of occupational performance. Burnout is included in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as an occupational phenomenon.

Over the past year, billions of people around the world have experienced chronic stress at work, at home, and in their communities. They have struggled to change their work routines. Many people have continued their work routines while caring for children or the elderly, or even studying remotely. Many people continued their work availability while grieving the loss of loved ones in a dramatic situation….

A June 2020 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducted to assess mental health, substance use, and suicidal ideation during the pandemic among adults aged ≥18 years across the United States during June 24-30, 2020, found that 40.9% of respondents had at least one adverse mental or behavioural health condition, including symptoms of an anxiety or depressive disorder (30.9%), symptoms of a disorder related to pandemic-related trauma and stress (26.3%), and having initiated or increased substance use to cope with stress or emotions related to COVID-19 (13.3%).

In the months that followed, the situation became increasingly dire. A December 2020 survey by Spring Health suggests that the number of Americans experiencing burnout could be as high as 76%….

One of the heaviest consequences of the spread of COVID-19 is the very health crisis that is afflicting health systems around the world. Regardless of job description and role type, health professionals are called upon every day to confront an emergency that burdens their own health….

However, it must be said that some professions are particularly vulnerable to burnout: that of physicians alone costs $4.6 billion per year. From 2020 to 2021, the cost of burnout is expected to be much higher….

Taking breaks from work, going out for a walk or for fresh air, practicing physical activity improve both our physical state and our mood. It can also be helpful to figure out what we like about work and focus on our interests and passions. Another possible strategy is to ask for help from colleagues, family members, friends, also showing your vulnerable side and without wanting to continue to be a superhero….

For other article by Medicina Narrative, see here.