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A cognitive behavioural model for maintaining processes in burnout

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 January 2010

Zoe Tyrrell*
Affiliation:
St Stephen's Hospital, Sarsfield Court, Glanmire, Co. Cork, Ireland
*
*Author for correspondence: Dr Z. Tyrrell, HSE South, North Cork Adult Mental Health, St Stephen's Hospital, Glanmire, Co. Cork, Ireland. (email: zoe.tyrrell@gmail.com)

Abstract

Can a cognitive behavioural approach offer a fresh understanding of the maintaining processes in burnout? This paper considers the enduring nature of burnout symptoms over time. It examines the hypothesis that some of the actions associated with ‘coping’ in burnout may conversely serve to perpetuate burnout symptoms. This model is considered in the context of mental-health workers and is discussed in the light of current research. It implies the need to adopt an approach to burnout that incorporates the challenging of burnout-related cognitions and the elimination of safety behaviours, rather than having a sole focus on self-care strategies.

Type
Practice article
Copyright
Copyright © British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies 2010

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Recommended follow-up reading

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