Stress and stress management in clinical psychology: findings from a systematic review

Background: Occupational stress is a major problem for individuals and organizations. Stress can cause burnout, ill-health, high workforce turnover, absenteeism, lowered morale and reduced efficiency and performance. Aims: To identify factors that contribute to stress, burnout and job satisfaction for qualified UK clinical psychologists; to identify the various coping strategies that are employed; to identify stress management interventions that have been used by members of the clinical psychology profession in the UK. Method: Systematic review, focusing on stressors, moderators and stress outcomes and on stress management interventions. Results: Seven studies were included in the review. Just one reported an evaluation of a stress management intervention. Reported sources of stress for clinical psychologists included client characteristics, excessive workloads, professional self-doubt and poor management. Coping strategies included talking with colleagues, and other "active" approaches to personal stress management. Up to 40% of UK clinical psychologists participating in studies were found to be experiencing "caseness" levels of distress. Conclusions: Mental health work is stress-provoking. However, organizational and professional factors may militate against psychologists seeking and receiving support at work. Declaration of interest: This study was undertaken with the support of the Wales Office of Research and Development for Health and Social Care