Burnout Syndrome Among Medical Students: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Introduction: Burnout Syndrome is conceptualized as a result of chronic stress in the workplace, characterized as a psychological syndrome composed of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and reduced personal fulfillment. The prevalence of this syndrome in medical students is quite expressive, and the more the student is exposed to the academic cycle, the greater the risk of developing an anxiety disorder, especially Burnout Syndrome. Objectives: To analyze in the literature the correlation between Anxiety Disorders, Burnout Syndrome and Medical Students. Methodology: The research took place in the CAPES, PubMed and VHL Regional Portal. The terms "burnout", "anxiety disorders" and "medical students" were considered as descriptors. Articles published between 2014 and 2019 were included. Results: Of the 69 articles found, only six were included in the review. Evidence was found that there is an association relationship between medical study and student mental exhaustion. It was also relating the time of exposure to the course with a higher prevalence of mental disorders. Relaxation techniques have shown a decline in Burnout's cognitive and emotional stress and anxiety. Conclusion: Burnout Syndrome is a reality among medical students. However, despite the importance of the theme, the literature on this correlation is incipient. There is a need for further investigations into strategies that aim to reduce the incidence, and consequently the prevalence of this syndrome, favoring the mental health of college students and the training of good health professionals.