Implementing a Protocol to Address Risk for Burnout Among Mental Health Professionals.

BACKGROUND

The magnitude for potential burnout is enormous. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for Addiction and Mental Health, and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reported diagnoses of psychiatric and substance use disorders are at an all-time high for physicians, psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, and psychologists.

OBJECTIVE

Reduce the potential for burnout among outpatient mental health clinicians and staff.

METHOD

Develop an agency wellness protocol utilizing evidence-based interventions to reduce the potential for clinician and staff burnout.

RESULTS

Survey data indicated low to moderate levels of burnout and depersonalization. Staff and clinician recommendations provided during feedback sessions were incorporated with evidence-based interventions to establish a wellness protocol.

CONCLUSION

Implementing evidence-based interventions in a wellness protocol may reduce the potential for clinician and staff burnout.