SN : What’s going on?

N : I feel tired, demoralized, completely tapped out and not being able to handle the requirements of the job.

SN : Do you feel you are experiencing some kind of mental and physical exhaustion? Maybe a feeling of depression, and not being able to sleep?

N : This is exactly what I’m going through now.

SN : And do you think that your efficacy in the workplace is being reduced? Like you’re regularly feeling overworked, tired to go to work and don’t even look forward to your job? And also maybe feeling underappreciated?

N : That’s about how I’d describe myself right now! I mean we often work long hours performing tasks that are physically and emotionally demanding. I feel so disheartened and like I need a break to reconsider everything!

SN : All right. I won’t be beating around the bush. You seem to be going through a burn-out episode, which is rather a serious job-related condition that might have major consequences on your well-being and health, as well as those of the patients.

N : Do you think that I lack compassion for my patient, and that I’m not fit for the job?

SN : Oh, no! It’s just important to remember that burn-out, or what we maycall compassion fatigue, is sometimes a result of working conditions, not a failure of lack of compassion or work ethic on your side. You just need a little time to see things over.

N : Now I need to know about the general causes of burn-out.

SN : There can be many causes, some inherent to the job like when you give compassionate care, work long hours, change shift schedules, and be called by so many people at the same time. But burn-out can also be caused by a psychological experience that happens when you feel you must take or witness actions that deeply challenge your moral beliefs, and due to which you feel uncomfortable, or even unable, to provide care.

N : But meanwhile, is there anything to do about that? I mean I really love my job and don’t want to be a hindrance to anything at all.

SN : Of course, some prevention and management measures can be taken. For example, you can try to nap between shifts when possible. You can also ask for emotional support and get help for stress either from your colleagues or from a therapist if you think things are hard to manage. You should also have some physical activities, breathing exercises, and consider eating healthy food in enough quantities and get enough sleep when you’re off duty. You may need to take a break and do pleasurable and leisure activities. And why not ask for special training dedicated to coping with the demands of the job? In short, you need to have some occupational balance.

N : Well, I started some mindfulness techniques a week ago, and it’s already a tiny bit better.