Experiences of burnout : A literature study

Burnout due to work-related stress is increasing in the society. Many studies concern the causes and effects of burnout, but rarely concern the experiences of those who are living with burnout. The aim of this study was to examine the experience of living with burnout. The concepts of health, suffering, burnout, stress and coping are briefly described in the background. The method that was used is a literature-based study with the analysis of qualitative research. This study is based on eight qualitative articles. Six themes emerged; Physical experiences, Psychological experiences and Existential experiences, Work experiences, Experiences of relations in private life and Experiences of demands and expectations. The results shows that burnout affects a person on many different levels. Dealing with burnout involves a range of varieties of symtoms, physical as well as psychological and social. Physical symtoms that appeared among the participants were for instance fatigue, brain fog, headache and palpitations. Social and relational problems as bad conscience, low self- esteem and feelings of inadequacy were experienced. Emotional disturbances and existential reflections were common amongst those who were suffering from burnout