Workload and the occurrence of depressive disorders and burnout syndrome among nurses
Workload and the occurrence of depressive disorders and burnout syndrome among nurses

Summary/Abstract: Introduction: Professional work significantly impacts an individual’s quality of life. The nursing profession is particularly unique due to the emotional burden and physical strain it places on the musculoskeletal system. The condition in which both mental and physical exhaustion occur is known as occupational burnout. The consequences of burnout include a lack of motivation to work and a negative attitude toward colleagues and patients. Symptoms such as indifference, apathy, resentment, increased fatigue, and emotional exhaustion emerge, which, when combined with anxiety, can serve as a precursor to depression. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of depressive disorders and occupational burnout syndrome among nurses. Material and methods: The study group consisted of 254 participants from various age groups. Adiagnostic survey method was employed, utilizing standardized research tools, namely the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square, Phi, and Cramer’s V tests, with a significance level set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Almost all respondents (96.9%) reported that they find their work stressful. Of the respondents, 63.0% showed no symptoms of depression, 33.1% exhibited mild depression, and 3.1% were classified as having moderate depression. Additionally, 47.2% of respondents were found to be at high risk for professional burnout. The mean level of emotional exhaustion was 24.13 ± 5.60, with a minimum score of 9.00 and a maximum score of 36.00. The mean level of depersonalization was 11.29 ± 3.36, and the mean level of reduced personal accomplishment was 16.74 ± 4.73. Conclusions: Among the nurses surveyed, sociodemographic factors, workplace, and work system did not significantly affect the prevalence of depressive disorders and burnout syndrome. As the risk of occupational burnout increases, so does the risk of depressive disorders. Furthermore, the higher the self-reported level of stress, the greater the risk of both depressive disorders and occupational burnout.

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