Prevalence of somatisation as a determinant of burnout amongst staff working in drug and alcohol services

Abstract

Somatisation and burnout amongst drug and alcohol workers 1 Prevalence of somatisation as a determinant of burnout amongst staff working in drug and alcohol services Background: Occupational groups within the helping professions work within emotionally challenging environments. Staff wellbeing, satisfaction and turnover correlate with treatment outcome. High levels of staff stress and ill health contribute to lower quality service delivery.There is limited evidence relating to work stress and burnout and stress related somatic symptoms amongst drug and alcohol workers in the UK. Objectives: This study explored the prevalence of somatisation as a determinant of burnout amongst drug and alcohol staff. Methods:The study employed a cross-sectional design utilising a self-completion online questionnaire. Data was collected from substance misuse workers across England andWales. 165 responses were eligible for analysis, yielding a response rate of 5%. Burnout and somatization were measured with Maslach's Burnout Inventory and the Physical Symptoms Inventory. Results: The prevalence of somatic symptoms was relatively low in the sample studied. The reported levels of burnout were moderate. Personal accomplishment remained high in the sample and there was a strong association between burnout and incidence of stress related somatic symptoms, with higher levels of burnout correlating with multiple symptoms. Conclusions: The reported levels of burnout and stress related symptomatology indicate vulnerability in this cohort, which is comparable to other human services occupational groups, but higher than within mental health settings. Thus, a direct response aimed at the prevention and management of burnout and stress related symptomatology in drug and alcohol workers is required, and should be integral to the development and maintenance of a healthy workforce.