Individual-Level Interventions for Burnout-View Presentation Slides

View Presentation Slides
Pdf Summary
This presentation by Dr. Benoit Dubé, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania, focuses on individual-level interventions to address burnout, particularly among physicians and healthcare workers.<br /><br />Burnout is defined as an occupational syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization or cynicism, and reduced professional efficacy. It is recognized in ICD-11 as an occupational phenomenon but not a medical condition. Burnout manifestations include emotional depletion, detachment from work, low personal achievement, and depersonalization. Minority groups may face higher risk due to workplace discrimination and microaggressions.<br /><br />Protective factors involve resilience—the capacity to bounce back and adapt positively under stress—developed through internal attributes (optimism, genetics), external modeling, and skills such as problem-solving and mindfulness. Building resilience relies on realistic acknowledgment of challenges, healthy lifestyle habits (exercise, sleep, nutrition), supportive relationships, boundaries, hobbies, humor, and focusing on positive emotions like gratitude.<br /><br />Wellbeing is defined holistically, encompassing multiple domains (emotional, social, physical, spiritual, intellectual, environmental, occupational, financial) as outlined by the SAMHSA wellness wheel. It integrates competing demands to achieve a state of flow—immersive engagement and fulfillment. Positive psychology frameworks, notably the PERMA model (Positive emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment), articulate pathways to flourishing.<br /><br />To enhance wellbeing and resilience, five simple steps (D5) are recommended: maintain a healthy daily routine (nutrition, sleep, exercise), practice deep breathing for relaxation, disconnect from digital distractions, develop supportive relationships through meaningful interactions, and discover personal meaning and purpose in one’s work.<br /><br />Additional resources include SAMHSA guidance and the U.S. Surgeon General’s advisories on addressing healthcare worker burnout. The talk emphasizes that while individual interventions are vital, organizational strategies are necessary to sustain wellbeing. Self-care remains fundamentally important for preventing burnout and promoting resilience in demanding medical professions.
Keywords
Burnout
Physicians
Healthcare workers
Resilience
Wellbeing
SAMHSA wellness wheel
PERMA model
D5 steps
Self-care
Organizational strategies