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Appelbom S, Nordström A, Finnes A, Wicksell RK, Bujacz A. Healthcare worker burnout during a persistent crisis: a case-control study. Occup Med (Lond) 2024; 74:297-303. [PMID: 38738440 PMCID: PMC11165371 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqae032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the immediate outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, burnout symptoms increased among healthcare workers. Knowledge is needed on how early symptoms developed during the persistent crisis that followed the first pandemic wave. AIMS To investigate if high levels of burnout symptoms during the first pandemic wave led to high burnout and depressive symptoms up to a year later, and if participation in psychological support was related to lower levels of symptoms. METHODS A longitudinal case-control study followed 581 healthcare workers from two Swedish hospitals. Survey data were collected with a baseline in May 2020 and three follow-up assessments until September 2021. The case group was participants reporting high burnout symptoms at baseline. Logistic regression analyses were performed separately at three follow-ups with case-control group assignment as the main predictor and burnout and depression symptoms as outcomes, controlling for frontline work, changes in work tasks and psychological support participation. RESULTS One out of five healthcare workers reported high burnout symptoms at baseline. The case group was more likely to have high burnout and depressive symptoms at all follow-ups. Participation in psychological support was unrelated to decreased burnout and depressive symptoms at any of the follow-ups. CONCLUSIONS During a persistent crisis, healthcare organizations should be mindful of psychological reactions among staff and who they place in frontline work early in the crisis. To better prepare for future healthcare crises, preventive measures on burnout are needed, both at workplaces and as part of the curricula in medical and nursing education.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Appelbom
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Nordström
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Finnes
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - R K Wicksell
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Pain Clinic, Capio St Göran Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Bujacz
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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2
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Cortés-Álvarez NY, Lara-Morales A, Bautista-Rodríguez E, Marmolejo-Murillo LG, Díaz Jiménez A, Vergara Hernández LA, Fernández Moya M, Vuelvas-Olmos CR. Job burnout, cognitive functioning, and Brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression among hospital Mexican nurses. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304092. [PMID: 38787900 PMCID: PMC11125546 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM To analyze the relationship between burnout syndrome, cognitive functions, and sBDNF (Serum Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor) in Mexican nurses. METHOD A descriptive cross-sectional design was used. This study target staff nurses working in hospitals in Guanajuato, México. Demographic and working condition data were collected via questionnaire. The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) was used to evaluate burnout. A blood sample were collected and processed by ELISA technique to measure sBDNF. Finally, the General Cognitive Assessment (CAB) of the Cognifit© neuropsychological battery was used to evaluated cognitive functions. RESULTS Findings showed that there are sociodemographic characteristics and working conditions associated with burnout syndrome among nurses. Furthermore, the data demonstrated a significant decrease in sBDNF levels in burnout nurses and a negative correlation between BDNF levels and burnout syndrome. Additionally, these burnout nurse also revealed significant cognitive impairment in reasoning, memory, and attention as well as total scores of CAB. Interestingly, we found a positive correlation between sBDNF levels and the cognitive deficits in burnout nurse. CONCLUSION Reduced BDNF levels could be a biological indicator or part of the pathological process of burnout, which could affect cognitive abilities. Reduced cognitive function in nurses has relevant implications and emphasizes the need for specialized preventive strategies because nurses make clinical decisions concerning their patients, whose situations are constantly changing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Yanet Cortés-Álvarez
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Division of Natural and Exact Sciences, University of Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Alfredo Lara-Morales
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Division of Natural and Exact Sciences, University of Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Elizabeth Bautista-Rodríguez
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Laboratory of Medical & Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - Monserrat Fernández Moya
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Division of Life Sciences, University of Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
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3
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van de Leur JC, Jovicic F, Åhslund A, McCracken LM, Buhrman M. Psychological Treatment of Exhaustion Due to Persistent Non-Traumatic Stress: A Scoping Review. Int J Behav Med 2024; 31:175-191. [PMID: 37308772 PMCID: PMC11001660 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10185-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exhaustion due to persistent non-traumatic stress (ENTS) is a significant health problem with substantial personal, social, and economic impact. While there are increasing studies of ENTS, there is no international agreement on how it should be diagnosed and treated. This scoping review aimed to map definitions, diagnoses, treatments, outcome measures, and outcomes in psychological treatment studies of ENTS. A further aim was to assess the quality of the treatments and map what change processes are described within ENTS interventions. METHODS A PRISMA-guided scoping review of psychological treatment studies delivered in a clinical setting for ENTS was conducted using the databases of PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL. RESULTS Of the 60 studies included, the majority (87%) stemmed from Europe. The most recurrent term for ENTS was burnout, and the diagnosis most often utilized was exhaustion disorder. Several treatments were reported, the most frequent being cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) (68%). Statistically significant outcomes relevant to ENTS were reported in 65% (n = 39) of the studies, with effect sizes between 0.13 and 1.80. In addition, 28% of the treatments were rated as high quality. The most frequent change processes described were dysfunctional sleep, avoidance, behavioral activation, irrational thoughts and beliefs, worry, perceived competence/positive management, psychological flexibility, and recuperation. CONCLUSIONS While several treatments based on CBT show promising results for ENTS, there do not seem to be any uniformly established methods, theoretical models, or change processes. Instead of adopting a monocausal, syndromal, and potentially bio-reductionist perspective on ENTS, a process-based approach to treatment is encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Clason van de Leur
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Box 1225, 751 42, Uppsala, Sweden.
- PBM Globen Rehab, Arenavägen 27, 121 77, Johanneshov, Sweden.
| | - Filip Jovicic
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Box 1225, 751 42, Uppsala, Sweden
- Capio Centrum För Smärta Och Utmattning, Krukmakargatan 37A, 118 51, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andreas Åhslund
- Capio Centrum För Smärta Och Utmattning, Krukmakargatan 37A, 118 51, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lance M McCracken
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Box 1225, 751 42, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Monica Buhrman
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Box 1225, 751 42, Uppsala, Sweden
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4
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Nouraeinejad A. Visuospatial processing can be disrupted in healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Int J Neurosci 2024:1-3. [PMID: 38289179 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2024.2312995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Nouraeinejad
- Faculty of Brain Sciences, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom
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5
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Steffey MA, Griffon DJ, Risselada M, Buote NJ, Scharf VF, Zamprogno H, Winter AL. A narrative review of the physiology and health effects of burnout associated with veterinarian-pertinent occupational stressors. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1184525. [PMID: 37465277 PMCID: PMC10351608 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1184525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic workplace stress and burnout are serious problems in veterinary medicine. Although not classified as a medical condition, burnout can affect sleep patterns and contributes to chronic low grade systemic inflammation, autonomic imbalance, hormonal imbalances and immunodeficiencies, thereby increasing the risks of physical and psychological ill health in affected individuals. Cultural misconceptions in the profession often lead to perceptions of burnout as a personal failure, ideas that healthcare professionals are somehow at lower risk for suffering, and beliefs that affected individuals can or should somehow heal themselves. However, these concepts are antiquated, harmful and incorrect, preventing the design of appropriate solutions for this serious and growing challenge to the veterinary profession. Veterinarians must first correctly identify the nature of the problem and understand its causes and impacts before rational solutions can be implemented. In this first part of two companion reviews, burnout will be defined, pathophysiology discussed, and healthcare and veterinary-relevant occupational stressors that lead to burnout identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele A. Steffey
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Dominique J. Griffon
- Western University of Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Marije Risselada
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West-Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Nicole J. Buote
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Valery F. Scharf
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
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6
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Somatic symptoms in burnout in a general adult population. J Psychosom Res 2023; 168:111217. [PMID: 36921422 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2023.111217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Burnout results in individual suffering and high societal costs, and is associated with somatic symptoms, anxiety and depression, calling for prevention by early identification. The objectives were to (i) determine prevalence of specific somatic symptoms in burnout, (ii) identify the symptoms, referred to as somatic symptoms of burnout (SS-B), that are particularly associated with burnout, (iii) determine their extent of association with burnout, and (iv) determine how well a certain number of SS-B differentiates participants with and without burnout in a general Swedish adult population. METHODS Cross-sectional, population-based data were used from 687 participants high on burnout, and 2544 referents based on the Shirom-Melamed Burnout Questionnaire. The Patient Health Questionnaire 15-item Somatic Symptom Severity Scale was used to assess common somatization symptoms, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale to assess anxiety and depression. RESULTS Feeling tired/having low energy, back pain, joint/limb pain, trouble sleeping, headaches, stomach pain, nausea/gas/indigestion, and constipation/loose bowels/diarrhea were most prevalent in burnout (57.2-95.0%). These symptoms, except for joint/limb pain, and dizziness, were also identified as the SS-B, with odds ratios of 2.34-12.74 and 1.95-9.11 when adjusted for background variables, and for anxiety and depression, respectively. Corresponding odds ratios for each additional number of SS-B were 1.69 and 1.52, respectively. The highest balanced accuracy (71.6%) for predicting burnout was found for ≥4 SS-B. CONCLUSION Fatigue, pain and gastrointestinal symptoms are particularly common in burnout. Further studies may show whether clinicians should consider screening for burnout when patients present with SS-B without pathophysiological explanations.
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7
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Ketvel L, Keltikangas-Järvinen L, Pahkala K, Juonala M, Ahola-Olli A, Lehtimäki T, Viikari J, Raitakari O, Rovio S, Saarinen A. Stress-Related Exhaustion, Polygenic Cognitive Potential, and Cognitive Test Performance - A General Population Study. COGNITIVE THERAPY AND RESEARCH 2023; 47:155-167. [PMID: 36945257 PMCID: PMC10023621 DOI: 10.1007/s10608-023-10354-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background We investigated whether stress-related exhaustion (chronic or short-term, and co-occurring with depression or not) is related to cognitive performance and whether polygenic cognitive potential modifies these associations. Methods The participants were from the Young Finns Study (N = 541-1273). Stress-related exhaustion was assessed using the Maastricht Questionnaire, depressive symptoms with the Beck Depression Inventory, and cognitive performance with subtests of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery, measuring visuospatial learning, reaction time, sustained attention, and executive function. Cognitive performance and depression were assessed in 2011, and exhaustion in 2001, 2007, and 2011. A polygenic score for cognitive potential was calculated based on a GWAS on intelligence. Results High stress-related exhaustion, especially chronic, was associated with slower reaction time. Only clinical levels of depression were related to slower reaction time. Polygenic cognitive potential did not modify these associations. There were no differences in cognitive performance between individuals with co-occurring exhaustion and depression vs. those with only either condition. Conclusion Stress-related exhaustion, especially if chronic, seems to relate to slower reactions. Co-occurring exhaustion and depression may not have additive effects on cognitive performance. High polygenic cognitive potential may not protect from or predispose to harmful effects of exhaustion or depression on reaction time. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10608-023-10354-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Ketvel
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 3, P.O. Box 21, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Liisa Keltikangas-Järvinen
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 3, P.O. Box 21, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Katja Pahkala
- Research Centre for Applied and Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Paavo Nurmi Centre and Unit for Health and Physical Activity, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Markus Juonala
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Ari Ahola-Olli
- Psychiatric and Neurodevelopmental Genetics Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Finnish Cardiovascular Research Center, Fimlab Laboratories, Tampere, Finland
| | - Terho Lehtimäki
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Finnish Cardiovascular Research Center, Fimlab Laboratories, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jorma Viikari
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Olli Raitakari
- Research Centre for Applied and Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Suvi Rovio
- Research Centre for Applied and Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Aino Saarinen
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Haartmaninkatu 3, P.O. Box 21, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
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8
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Koutsimani P, Montgomery A. Burnout and Cognitive Functioning: Are We Underestimating the Role of Visuospatial Functions? Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:775606. [PMID: 35401261 PMCID: PMC8983930 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.775606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Job burnout is a psychological syndrome which results from chronic occupational stress and cognitive impairments are among its negative consequences. The demands of the COVID-19 pandemic have challenged the healthcare system increasing the risk of job burnout among healthcare professionals. The studies conducted so far have mainly focused on the effects of job burnout on executive functions. Visuospatial functions are a cognitive domain which plays an important role in healthcare workers' optimal performance. Healthcare workers are constantly relying on their visuospatial abilities in order to care for their patients as they are required to use techniques that involve manipulation of medical instruments, they need to have excellent hand-eye coordination and great perception of spatial anatomy, factors that can affect healthcare workers' performance is of significance and can put patient safety at risk. However, our understanding of how visuospatial functions are being affected in job burnout is limited. The scope of this mini-review is to examine the evidence concerning the relationship of job burnout with visuospatial functions. The sparsity of the relevant empirical evidence does not allow for definite conclusions. However, given the implications of diminished visuospatial abilities in patient safety we highlight the need for studies exploring the effects of job burnout on visuospatial functions. Limitations of studies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota Koutsimani
- Department of Educational & Social Policy, School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts, University of Macedonia, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anthony Montgomery
- Department of Educational & Social Policy, School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts, University of Macedonia, Thessaloniki, Greece
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9
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Gavelin HM, Domellöf ME, Åström E, Nelson A, Launder NH, Neely AS, Lampit A. Cognitive function in clinical burnout: A systematic review and meta-analysis. WORK AND STRESS 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/02678373.2021.2002972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Andreas Nelson
- Department of Social and Psychological Studies, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Nathalie H. Launder
- Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Anna Stigsdotter Neely
- Department of Social and Psychological Studies, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
- Department of Social Sciences, Technology and Arts, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
- Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Amit Lampit
- Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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10
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Demerouti E, Bakker AB, Peeters MC, Breevaart K. New directions in burnout research. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF WORK AND ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/1359432x.2021.1979962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Evangelia Demerouti
- Department of Industrial Engineering & Innovation Sciences, Eindhoven of University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Arnold B. Bakker
- University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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11
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McCanlies EC, Leppma M, Mnatsakanova A, Allison P, Fekedulegn D, Andrew ME, Violanti JM. Associations of burnout with awakening and diurnal cortisol among police officers. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2021; 4. [PMID: 34553178 PMCID: PMC8455162 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2020.100016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the associations of burnout with cortisol parameters in 197 police officers from the Buffalo Cardio-Metabolic Occupational Police Stress (BCOPS) study (2010–2014). The Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey assessed depersonalization, exhaustion, and professional efficacy. Officers provided salivary cortisol samples collected upon awakening, and 15, 30, and 45 min thereafter as well as three additional samples at lunchtime, dinnertime, and bedtime. Total area under the curve with respect to increase (AUCWI for waking and AUCDI for diurnal), total area under the curve with respect to ground (AUCWG for waking and AUCDG for diurnal), and diurnal slope were determined and used in this study. Unadjusted and adjusted (age, sex, and race/ethnicity) associations were examined using linear regression. The mean age of the officers was 48 years and 72% were males. The depersonalization component of burnout was negatively associated with AUCDG (β = −108.4; p = 0.036). Similarly, as exhaustion increased, AUCWI (β = −9.58, p = 0.038), AUCDG (β = −114.7, p = 0.029) and the diurnal slope (β = −0.000038; p = 0.017) decreased. The Professional efficacy was not associated with any of the cortisol parameters. These results suggest that certain characteristics of burnout may be associated with diminished cortisol secretion in this group of urban police officers. Our findings add to previous studies examining associations of burnout with the cortisol awakening response. Future longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate the temporal relationship between burnout and these cortisol parameters. Burnout component scores and cortisol parameter values did not differ significantly between male and female officers. Adjusted models demonstrated significant negative associations between the burnout components and cortisol parameters. As depersonalization increased, AUCDG decreased. As exhaustion increased, AUCWI, AUCDG, and the diurnal slope decreased. Professional efficacy was not associated with either AUCWI or AUCDG.
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Affiliation(s)
- E C McCanlies
- Bioanalytics Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - M Leppma
- West Virginia University, Department of Counseling, Rehabilitation Counseling, and Counseling Psychology, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - A Mnatsakanova
- Bioanalytics Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - P Allison
- Bioanalytics Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - D Fekedulegn
- Bioanalytics Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - M E Andrew
- Bioanalytics Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - J M Violanti
- University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Buffalo, NY, USA
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12
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Nelson A, Gavelin HM, Boraxbekk CJ, Eskilsson T, Josefsson M, Slunga Järvholm L, Neely AS. Subjective cognitive complaints in patients with stress-related exhaustion disorder: a cross sectional study. BMC Psychol 2021; 9:84. [PMID: 34006315 PMCID: PMC8132387 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-021-00576-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Stress-related exhaustion is associated with cognitive impairment as measured by both subjective cognitive complaints (SCCs) and objective cognitive test performance. This study aimed to examine how patients diagnosed with exhaustion disorder differ from healthy control participants in regard to levels and type of SCCs, and if SCCs are associated with cognitive test performance and psychological distress. Methods We compared a group of patients with stress-related exhaustion disorder (n = 103, female = 88) with matched healthy controls (n = 58, female = 47) cross-sectionally, concerning the type and magnitude of self-reported SCCs. We furthermore explored the association between SCCs and cognitive test performance as well as with self-reported depression, anxiety and burnout levels, in the patient and the control group, respectively. Results Patients reported considerably more cognitive failures and were more likely than controls to express memory failures in situations providing few external cues and reminders in the environment. In both groups, SCCs were associated with demographic and psychological factors, and not with cognitive test performance. Conclusion Our findings underline the high burden of cognitive problems experienced by patients with exhaustion disorder, particularly in executively demanding tasks without external cognitive support. From a clinical perspective, SCCs and objective cognitive test performance may measure different aspects of cognitive functioning, and external cognitive aids could be of value in stress rehabilitation. Trial registration Participants were recruited as part of the Rehabilitation for Improved Cognition (RECO) study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03073772). Date of registration: 8 March 2017 Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40359-021-00576-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Nelson
- Department of Social and Psychological Studies, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden. .,Department of Anaesthesiology, Central Hospital of Karlstad, Karlstad, Region Värmland, Sweden.
| | - Hanna Malmberg Gavelin
- Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Carl-Johan Boraxbekk
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Diagnostic Radiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen (ISMC), Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Amager and Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Therese Eskilsson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section for Sustainable Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Maria Josefsson
- Centre for Demographic and Ageing Research (CEDAR), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Department of Statistics Umeå, University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Lisbeth Slunga Järvholm
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section for Sustainable Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anna Stigsdotter Neely
- Department of Social and Psychological Studies, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden.,Department of Social Sciences, Technology and Arts, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden.,Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
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13
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Ellbin S, Jonsdottir IH, Eckerström C, Eckerström M. Self-reported cognitive impairment and daily life functioning 7-12 years after seeking care for stress-related exhaustion. Scand J Psychol 2021; 62:484-492. [PMID: 33728711 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The overall aim of this study was to investigate self-reported cognitive difficulties, daily life activities, and health/sleep factors in former patients with exhaustion disorder (ED) who still fulfill the clinical criteria for exhaustion 7-12 years after seeking care. The Sahlgrenska Self-reported Cognitive Impairment Questionnaire (SASCI-Q) was used to measure cognitive difficulties, daily life activities, and health/sleep factors. Three groups were compared: previous patients still judged to be clinically exhausted seven years or more after seeking care (n = 51); previous patients considered clinically recovered (n = 98); and healthy controls (n = 50). Patients who still fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for ED reported widespread problems related to cognition, fatigue, and daily life functioning compared to the clinically recovered group. Furthermore, despite no longer fulfilling the clinical criteria, the recovered patients still reported more problems related to cognitive functioning and fatigue compared to healthy controls. Thus, this group appeared intermediary between the non-recovered group and healthy controls regarding self-reported cognitive functioning. To conclude, ED may have considerable negative long-term effects, and it is possible that some of these residual symptoms, particularly the cognitive problems and persistent fatigue, are permanent in some patients. Preventive measures should be the primary focus for all stakeholders, since the consequences of stress-related mental health problems seem to be extensive and long-lasting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Ellbin
- Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ingibjörg H Jonsdottir
- Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden.,School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Carl Eckerström
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Marie Eckerström
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
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14
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Koutsimani P, Montgomery A, Masoura E, Panagopoulou E. Burnout and Cognitive Performance. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18042145. [PMID: 33671754 PMCID: PMC7926785 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18042145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between burnout and cognitive functioning. The associations of depression, anxiety and family support with burnout and cognitive functioning were also examined both independently and as potential moderators of the burnout–cognitive functioning relationship. Seven different cognitive tasks were administered to employees of the general working population and five cognitive domains were assessed; i.e., executive functions, working memory, memory (episodic, visuospatial, prospective), attention/speed of processing and visuospatial abilities. Burnout, depression, anxiety and family support were assessed with the Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Family Support Scale respectively. In congruence with the first and fourth (partially) Hypotheses, burnout and perceived family support are significantly associated with some aspects of cognitive functioning. Moreover, in line with the third Hypothesis, perceived family support is inversely related to burnout. However, in contrast to the second and fourth Hypotheses, depression, anxiety and perceived family support do not moderate the burnout–cognitive functioning relationship. Additional results reveal positive associations between burnout depression and anxiety. Overall findings suggest that cognitive deficits, depression and anxiety appear to be common in burnout while they underpin the role of perceived family support in both mental health and cognitive functioning. Implications for practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota Koutsimani
- Department of Educational & Social Policy, School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts, University of Macedonia, Egnatia 156, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-2310-891-308
| | - Anthony Montgomery
- Department of Educational & Social Policy, School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts, University of Macedonia, Egnatia 156, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Elvira Masoura
- Department of Experimental Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Efharis Panagopoulou
- Laboratory of Hygiene, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
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15
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Sjörs Dahlman A, Jonsdottir IH, Hansson C. The hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis and the autonomic nervous system in burnout. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2021; 182:83-94. [PMID: 34266613 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819973-2.00006-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Burnout constitutes a serious health concern in the modern working environment. It is a stress-related condition that has developed as a result of a prolonged psychosocial stress exposure causing a persistent mismatch between demands and resources. The main symptom is emotional exhaustion, but physical fatigue, diminished professional efficacy, cynicism, and cognitive impairments are also associated with this condition. Burnout has been used both as a psychologic term in occupational settings and as a clinical diagnosis in patient populations, and there is currently no universally accepted definition and diagnostic criteria of burnout. It has been hypothesized that the two main stress response systems, the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis), are involved in the pathogenesis of burnout. A common hypothesis is that in the early stages of chronic stress, the HPA axis and sympathetic ANS activity tend to be higher, while it will decrease with a longer duration of chronic stress to ultimately reach a state of hypoactivity in clinical burnout. The current research in this field shows many contradictory results. Thus there is no compelling evidence of either ANS or HPA dysfunction in burnout. However, there is partial support for the hypothesis of HPA and sympathetic hyperactivity in early stages, and HPA hyporeactivity and low vagal activity in more severe burnout cases, but high-quality studies investigating the causal links are still lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sjörs Dahlman
- Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden; Human Factors Department, Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Ingibjörg H Jonsdottir
- Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden; School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Caroline Hansson
- Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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16
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Skau S, Jonsdottir IH, Sjörs Dahlman A, Johansson B, Kuhn HG. Exhaustion disorder and altered brain activity in frontal cortex detected with fNIRS. Stress 2021; 24:64-75. [PMID: 32510268 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2020.1777972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with stress-related Exhaustion Disorder (ED) have problems with memory and executive function. These problems have been associated with deviant activity in prefrontal cortex (PFC). We investigated cognitive performance and functional activity in the PFC during prolonged mental activity in patients with ED (n = 20, 16 women) with a mean duration since diagnosis of 46 ± 23 months in comparison to healthy individuals (n = 20, 12 women). A block of six neuropsychological tests was performed in a sequence that was repeated once. The brain imaging technique, functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used for all tests. There were no differences between the groups in terms of changes over time, i.e. difference between first and second test block. In the Stroop-Simon test, the controls showedhigher functional activity in the frontal cortex. In the left ventrolateral PFC, we observed an increased activity in controls in the incongruent compared to the congruent trials, whereas no changes were detected in the ED patient group. During processing speed tasks, only ED patients showed higher functional activity in right dorsolateral PFC. The ED patients reported lower subjective energy level and they also performed less well on a mental control task compared to healthy individuals. In conclusion, ED patients showed altered functional activity compared to controls, indicating that ED patients process information differently in the prefrontal cortex, but the functional activity did not change during the 2½ hr procedure, as revealed by the test-retest design. Lay summary In this paper we show that patient with exhaustion disorder have a reduced functional activity in the prefrontal cortex. This functional activity was not affected by 2.5 hours mental activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Skau
- Instituteof Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ingibjörg H Jonsdottir
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Institute of Stress Medicine, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anna Sjörs Dahlman
- Institute of Stress Medicine, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Birgitta Johansson
- Instituteof Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - H Georg Kuhn
- Instituteof Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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17
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Schaufeli WB, Desart S, De Witte H. Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT)-Development, Validity, and Reliability. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17249495. [PMID: 33352940 PMCID: PMC7766078 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17249495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
This paper introduces a new definition for burnout and investigates the psychometric properties of the Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT). In a prior qualitative study, 49 practitioners were interviewed about their conceptualization of burnout (part 1). Using a dialectical approach, four core dimensions—exhaustion, mental distance, and impaired emotional and cognitive impairment—and three secondary dimensions—depressed mood, psychological distress, and psychosomatic complaints—emerged, which constitute the basis of the BAT. In the second study, the psychometric characteristics of the BAT were investigated in a representative sample of 1500 Flemish employees, focusing on factorial validity, reliability, and construct validity, respectively. Results demonstrate the assumed four-factor structure for the core dimensions, which is best represented by one general burnout factor. Contrary to expectations, instead of a three-factor structure, a two-factor structure was found for the secondary dimensions. Furthermore, the BAT and its subscales show adequate reliability. Convergent validity and discriminant validity with other burnout measures—including the MBI and OLBI—was demonstrated, as well as discriminant validity with other well-being constructs, such as work engagement and workaholism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilmar B. Schaufeli
- Research Group Work, Organizational and Personnel Psychology (WOPP), O2L, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (S.D.); (H.D.W.)
- Department of Social and Organizational Psychology, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
| | - Steffie Desart
- Research Group Work, Organizational and Personnel Psychology (WOPP), O2L, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (S.D.); (H.D.W.)
| | - Hans De Witte
- Research Group Work, Organizational and Personnel Psychology (WOPP), O2L, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (S.D.); (H.D.W.)
- Optentia Research Focus Area, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark 1900, South Africa
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18
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Law R, Evans P, Thorn L, Hucklebridge F, Loveday C, Clow A. The cortisol awakening response predicts a same-day index of executive function in healthy young adults. Int J Psychophysiol 2020; 158:27-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2020.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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19
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Kulikowski K. Cognitive abilities - a new direction in burnout research. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF WORK AND ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/1359432x.2020.1841284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Konrad Kulikowski
- Faculty of Management, University of Social Sciences, Społeczna Akademia Nauk, Łódz, Poland
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20
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de Vries JD, van Hooff MLM, Geurts SAE, Kompier MAJ. Process evaluation of the receipt of an exercise intervention for fatigued employees: the role of exposure and exercise experiences. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF WORK AND ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/1359432x.2020.1829034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Juriena D. de Vries
- Center of Excellence for Positive Organizational Psychology, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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21
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Rudman A, Arborelius L, Dahlgren A, Finnes A, Gustavsson P. Consequences of early career nurse burnout: A prospective long-term follow-up on cognitive functions, depressive symptoms, and insomnia. EClinicalMedicine 2020; 27:100565. [PMID: 33150328 PMCID: PMC7599295 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2020.100565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Burnout is common among nurses and midwives. We examined whether an early career episode of burnout has long-term consequences on; a) cognitive functions, b) symptoms of depression, and/or c) insomnia for nurses a decade after graduation. METHODS Symptoms of burnout were investigated in an observational longitudinal study of three national cohorts of registered nurses (RNs). Nursing students were recruited from all 26 of Sweden's nursing programs. Burnout was subsequently measured through annual assessment over the first three years post graduation, with one long-term follow-up 11-15 years after graduation. A total of 2474 nurses (62%) consented to participate at follow-up. Burnout was measured using items from the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, cognitive function by a study specific instrument, depressive symptoms by the Major Depression Inventory, and sleep problems using items from the Karolinska Sleep Questionnaire. We used logistic regression to identify factors associated with consequences of early career burnout, adjusting for concurrent levels at follow up. FINDINGS The prevalence of nurses reporting high levels of burnout symptoms at least one of the first three years of working life was 299 (12·3%). High levels of burnout symptoms in early working life were significantly related to more frequent symptoms of cognitive dysfunction, depression, and impaired sleep a decade later when taking current burnout levels into account. After controlling for both current symptoms of burnout and the other outcome variables, nurses with early career burnout still reported more frequent problems with cognitive functions and sleep but not depression. INTERPRETATION The results of this study show that the detrimental processes caused by overwhelming or chronic stress start early on in nurses' careers and thus preventive efforts should preferably be introduced early on (e.g. as part of nursing education and onboarding programs). FUNDING AFA Insurance Grant [number 150284].
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Rudman
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 9, Solna, Stockholm SE-171 65, Sweden
| | - Lotta Arborelius
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 9, Solna, Stockholm SE-171 65, Sweden
| | - Anna Dahlgren
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 9, Solna, Stockholm SE-171 65, Sweden
| | - Anna Finnes
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 9, Solna, Stockholm SE-171 65, Sweden
| | - Petter Gustavsson
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 9, Solna, Stockholm SE-171 65, Sweden
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22
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van Dijk DM, van Rhenen W, Murre JMJ, Verwijk E. Cognitive functioning, sleep quality, and work performance in non-clinical burnout: The role of working memory. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231906. [PMID: 32325479 PMCID: PMC7180070 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the relationship between cognitive functioning, work performance, and sleep in non-clinical burnout. In a working population, an online survey was conducted with additional online neuropsychological tests of varying complexity, measuring attention and different components of working memory, of which the coordinating subcomponent the ‘Central Executive’ is thought to be the most vulnerable to stress. Results indicate that non-clinical burnout is associated with more—though not severe—sleep problems, more depressive complaints, impaired work performance, and with both subjective and objective cognitive impairments. Compared with healthy respondents (N = 107), people with non-clinical burnout (N = 17) had a significantly poorer performance on the tests of the visuospatial sketchpad and the Central Executive of the working memory. Our study also indicates that more complex tests may be more sensitive in detecting cognitive dysfunction in non-clinical burnout. Furthermore, a relationship was found between dual-task performance and work performance. Regarding to sleep quality, in our sample of people with non-clinical burnout, there were no severe sleep problems. In the entire sample, however, insomnia was significantly related to subjective, but not objective, cognitive functioning, and also not to work performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dela M. van Dijk
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Arbo Unie, Occupational Health and Safety Service, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Willem van Rhenen
- Arbo Unie, Occupational Health and Safety Service, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap M. J. Murre
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Esmée Verwijk
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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23
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Law R, Clow A. Stress, the cortisol awakening response and cognitive function. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 150:187-217. [PMID: 32204832 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
There is evidence that stress-induced disruption of the circadian rhythm of cortisol secretion, has negative consequences for brain health. The cortisol awakening response (CAR) is the most prominent and dynamic aspect of this rhythm. It has complex regulatory mechanisms making it distinct from the rest of the cortisol circadian rhythm, and is frequently investigated as a biomarker of stress and potential intermediary between stress and impaired brain function. Despite this, the precise function of the CAR within the healthy cortisol circadian rhythm remains poorly understood. Cortisol is a powerful hormone known to influence cognition in multiple and complex ways. Studies of the CAR and cognitive function have used varied methodological approaches which have produced similarly varied findings. The present review considers the accumulating evidence linking stress, attenuation of the CAR and reduced cognitive function, and seeks to contextualize the many findings to study populations, cognitive measures, and CAR methodologies employed. Associations between the CAR and both memory and executive functions are discussed in relation to its potential role as a neuroendocrine time of day signal that synchronizes peripheral clocks throughout the brain to enable optimum function, and recommendations for future research are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Law
- Psychology, School of Social Sciences, University of Westminster, London, England.
| | - Angela Clow
- Psychology, School of Social Sciences, University of Westminster, London, England
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24
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Eskilsson T, Fjellman-Wiklund A, Ek Malmer E, Stigsdotter Neely A, Malmberg Gavelin H, Slunga Järvholm L, Boraxbekk CJ, Nordin M. Hopeful struggling for health: Experiences of participating in computerized cognitive training and aerobic training for persons with stress-related exhaustion disorder. Scand J Psychol 2020; 61:361-368. [PMID: 31995652 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
It is important to understand how people with exhaustion disorder (ED) perceive interventions aiming to facilitate cognitive functioning. Therefore, the overall aim of this study was to explore experiences from persons with ED after participating in a 12-week intervention of either computerized cognitive training or aerobic training. Both interventions were performed in addition to a multimodal rehabilitation programme. Thirteen participants, 11 women and 2 men, were interviewed about pros and cons with participating in the training. The interviews were analysed with Qualitative Content Analysis. The analyses resulted in the theme hopeful struggling for health and the categories support, motivation and sensations. It was hard work recovering from ED. Support from others who are in the same situation, family members, and technology and routines for the training were strongly emphasized as beneficial for recovery. Timing, i.e., matching activities to the rehabilitation programme, getting feedback and perceiving joy in the training were important for motivation. Participants in both interventions experienced positive sensations with improved memory performance, everyday life functioning and increased faith in the prospect of recovery. However, it is important to consider various aspects of support and motivation in both computerized cognitive training and aerobic training to enable participants to pursue their participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Therese Eskilsson
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Sustainable Health and Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Elin Ek Malmer
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Danderyd Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Stigsdotter Neely
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Department of Social and Psychological Studies, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Hanna Malmberg Gavelin
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lisbeth Slunga Järvholm
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Sustainable Health and Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Carl-Johan Boraxbekk
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Denmark.,Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Maria Nordin
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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25
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Sjörs Dahlman A, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Glise K, Jonsdottir IH. Growth factors and neurotrophins in patients with stress-related exhaustion disorder. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 109:104415. [PMID: 31472432 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.104415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Growth factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF), and neurotrophic factors, including brain-derived neurotophic factor (BDNF), have attracted attention in studies of the biological effects of long-term stress exposure due to their neuroprotective roles. This study investigated whether circulating levels of EGF, VEGF and BDNF were altered in individuals with stress-related exhaustion disorder. Forty patients diagnosed with exhaustion disorder and 40 healthy subjects (50% women) provided fasting blood samples for analysis of EGF, VEGF, and BDNF in plasma. We found significantly lower levels of EGF, VEGF, and BDNF in patients with ED compared to healthy controls. This pattern was seen in both male and female patients. Given the important roles of BDNF and VEGF for brain plasticity and neurogenesis, decreased levels after long-term stress exposure could indicate increased risk of neuronal damage and cognitive impairments in this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sjörs Dahlman
- The Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden; The Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Kaj Blennow
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Sweden; Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Sweden; Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden; Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom; UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kristina Glise
- The Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ingibjörg H Jonsdottir
- The Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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26
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27
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Malmberg Gavelin H, Eskilsson T, Boraxbekk CJ, Josefsson M, Stigsdotter Neely A, Slunga Järvholm L. Rehabilitation for improved cognition in patients with stress-related exhaustion disorder: RECO - a randomized clinical trial. Stress 2018; 21:279-291. [PMID: 29693483 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2018.1461833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress-related exhaustion has been associated with selective and enduring cognitive impairments. However, little is known about how to address cognitive deficits in stress rehabilitation and how this influences stress recovery over time. The aim of this open-label, parallel randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03073772) was to investigate the long-term effects of 12 weeks cognitive or aerobic training on cognitive function, psychological health, and work ability for patients diagnosed with exhaustion disorder (ED). One-hundred-and-thirty-two patients (111 women) participating in multimodal stress rehabilitation were randomized to receive additional cognitive training (n = 44), additional aerobic training (n = 47), or no additional training (n = 41). Treatment effects were assessed before, immediately after and one-year post intervention. The primary outcome was global cognitive function. Secondary outcomes included domain-specific cognition, self-reported burnout, depression, anxiety, fatigue and work ability, aerobic capacity, and sick-leave levels. Intention-to-treat analysis revealed a small but lasting improvement in global cognitive functioning for the cognitive training group, paralleled by a large improvement on a trained updating task. The aerobic training group showed improvements in aerobic capacity and episodic memory immediately after training, but no long-term benefits. General improvements in psychological health and work ability were observed, with no difference between interventional groups. Our findings suggest that cognitive training may be a viable method to address cognitive impairments for patients with ED, whereas the effects of aerobic exercise on cognition may be more limited when performed during a restricted time period. The implications for clinical practice in supporting patients with ED to adhere to treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Therese Eskilsson
- b Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy , Umeå University , Umeå , Sweden
| | - Carl-Johan Boraxbekk
- c Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research , Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre , Hvidovre , Denmark
- d Centre for Demographic and Aging Research (CEDAR) , Umeå University , Umeå , Sweden
| | - Maria Josefsson
- d Centre for Demographic and Aging Research (CEDAR) , Umeå University , Umeå , Sweden
| | - Anna Stigsdotter Neely
- a Department of Psychology , Umeå University , Umeå , Sweden
- e Department of Social and Psychological Studies , Karlstad University , Karlstad , Sweden
| | - Lisbeth Slunga Järvholm
- f Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine , Umeå University , Umeå , Sweden
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Penz M, Wekenborg MK, Pieper L, Beesdo-Baum K, Walther A, Miller R, Stalder T, Kirschbaum C. The Dresden Burnout Study: Protocol of a prospective cohort study for the bio-psychological investigation of burnout. Int J Methods Psychiatr Res 2018; 27:e1613. [PMID: 29611872 PMCID: PMC6877172 DOI: 10.1002/mpr.1613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Dresden Burnout Study (DBS) is a 12-year longitudinal cohort study that aims to provide a description of the burnout syndrome on the basis of time and symptom criteria with a special focus on the search for biomarkers. Biological and psychosocial approaches are applied to examine the long-term course and consequences of burnout within a population-based German-speaking sample aged 18 to 68 years. METHODS Demographics and psychosocial data are generated by online assessments, including demographics and questionnaires on burnout, burnout-related constructs, work-environment, and health-related factors. The lab-based biomarker assessment includes endocrine, physiological, immunological, and epigenetic markers obtained from blood and hair samples. In addition, heart rate variability is also measured repeatedly. Within the first 2 years, the DBS collected psychosocial data from over 7,600 participants with biological data obtained from more than 800 individuals. During the following 10 years, detailed assessments of biomarkers and psychosocial factors will be collected in annual study waves. RESULTS Results will be generated during the following decade. CONCLUSION The findings of the DBS are expected to pave the road for an in-depth biopsychosocial characterization of burnout and to give insight into the long-term course and potential mental and physical health consequences of the burnout syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Penz
- Institute of Biological Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Magdalena K Wekenborg
- Institute of Biological Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Lars Pieper
- Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Behavioral Epidemiology, Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Longitudinal Studies, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Katja Beesdo-Baum
- Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Behavioral Epidemiology, Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Longitudinal Studies, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Andreas Walther
- Institute of Biological Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Robert Miller
- Institute of Biological Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Tobias Stalder
- Institute of Biological Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Clinical Psychology, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany
| | - Clemens Kirschbaum
- Institute of Biological Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Bauernhofer K, Bassa D, Canazei M, Jiménez P, Paechter M, Papousek I, Fink A, Weiss EM. Subtypes in clinical burnout patients enrolled in an employee rehabilitation program: differences in burnout profiles, depression, and recovery/resources-stress balance. BMC Psychiatry 2018; 18:10. [PMID: 29343237 PMCID: PMC5773035 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-018-1589-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Burnout is generally perceived a unified disorder with homogeneous symptomatology across people (exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced professional efficacy). However, increasing evidence points to intra-individual patterns of burnout symptoms in non-clinical samples such as students, athletes, healthy, and burned-out employees. Different burnout subtypes might therefore exist. Yet, burnout subtypes based on burnout profiles have hardly been explored in clinical patients, and the samples investigated in previous studies were rather heterogeneous including patients with various physical, psychological, and social limitations, symptoms, and disabilities. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore burnout subtypes based on burnout profiles in clinically diagnosed burnout patients enrolled in an employee rehabilitation program, and to investigate whether the subtypes differ in depression, recovery/resources-stress balance, and sociodemographic characteristics. METHODS One hundred three patients (66 women, 37 men) with a clinical burnout diagnosis, who were enrolled in a 5 week employee rehabilitation program in two specialized psychosomatic clinics in Austria, completed a series of questionnaires including the Maslach Burnout Inventory - General Survey (MBI-GS), the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Recovery-Stress-Questionnaire for Work. Cluster analyses with the three MBI-GS subscales as clustering variables were used to identify the burnout subtypes. Subsequent multivariate/univariate analysis of variance and Pearson chi-square tests were performed to investigate differences in depression, recovery/resources-stress balance, and sociodemographic characteristics. RESULTS Three different burnout subtypes were discovered: the exhausted subtype, the exhausted/cynical subtype, and the burned-out subtype. The burned-out subtype and the exhausted/cynical subtype showed both more severe depression symptoms and a worse recovery/resources-stress balance than the exhausted subtype. Furthermore, the burned-out subtype was more depressed than the exhausted/cynical subtype, but no difference was observed between these two subtypes with regard to perceived stress, recovery, and resources. Sociodemographic characteristics were not associated with the subtypes. CONCLUSIONS The present study indicates that there are different subtypes in clinical burnout patients (exhausted, exhausted/cynical, and burned-out), which might represent patients at different developmental stages in the burnout cycle. Future studies need to replicate the current findings, investigate the stability of the symptom patterns, and examine the efficacy of rehabilitation interventions in different subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Bauernhofer
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2/DG, 8010, Graz, Austria.
| | - Daniela Bassa
- 0000000121539003grid.5110.5Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2/DG, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Markus Canazei
- 0000 0001 2151 8122grid.5771.4Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Bruno-Sander-Haus Innrain 52f, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Paulino Jiménez
- 0000000121539003grid.5110.5Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2/DG, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Manuela Paechter
- 0000000121539003grid.5110.5Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2/DG, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Ilona Papousek
- 0000000121539003grid.5110.5Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2/DG, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas Fink
- 0000000121539003grid.5110.5Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2/DG, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Elisabeth M. Weiss
- 0000000121539003grid.5110.5Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2/DG, 8010 Graz, Austria
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Jonsdottir IH, Nordlund A, Ellbin S, Ljung T, Glise K, Währborg P, Sjörs A, Wallin A. Working memory and attention are still impaired after three years in patients with stress-related exhaustion. Scand J Psychol 2017; 58:504-509. [DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Arto Nordlund
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology; University of Gothenburg; Mölndal Sweden
| | | | - Thomas Ljung
- Mid Sweden University and Jämtland County Council; Östersund Sweden
| | | | - Peter Währborg
- Institute of Medicine; University of Gothenburg; Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Anna Sjörs
- Institute of Stress Medicine; Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Anders Wallin
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology; University of Gothenburg; Mölndal Sweden
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31
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Gajewski PD, Boden S, Freude G, Potter GG, Falkenstein M. Burnout is associated with changes in error and feedback processing. Biol Psychol 2017; 129:349-358. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2017.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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He SC, Zhang YY, Zhan JY, Wang C, Du XD, Yin GZ, Cao B, Ning YP, Soares JC, Zhang XY. Burnout and cognitive impairment: Associated with serum BDNF in a Chinese Han population. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2017; 77:236-243. [PMID: 28119229 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2017.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Revised: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some studies have demonstrated that subjects with chronic burnout showed cognitive impairments; however, cognitive performance in burnout has been under-investigated. Increasing evidence show that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a critical role in cognitive function. We hypothesized that decreased BDNF may be associated with cognitive impairments in burnout, which has not been investigated yet. The aim of the present study was to examine the association of BDNF with cognitive impairment in burnout. METHOD Using a cross-sectional design, 712 healthy subjects were recruited from a general hospital and they were all measured with the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). We assessed part of subjects on the repeatable battery for the assessment of neuropsychological status (RBANS) (n=192) and serum BDNF levels (n=127). RESULTS 30.5% of the subjects had burnout. Compared to those non-burnout subjects, the burnout subjects were younger, had significant lower BDNF levels (p=0.003) and scored lower on immediate memory, RBANS total score and attention (all p<0.05). Interestingly, after the Bonferroni correction, there were negative correlations between BDNF and MBI total score or reduced professional accomplishment (PA). Moreover, BDNF was positively associated with immediate memory, attention and RBANS total score. Further multiple regression analysis showed that BDNF was an independent contributor to the RBANS total score and attention, and BDNF and MBI depersonalization (DP) were independent contributors to immediate memory. In addition, there was mediating effect of BDNF in the relation between burnout and cognitive impairments. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that burnout is associated with significant cognitive impairments and decreased BDNF. Moreover, decreased BDNF is associated with cognitive impairments in burnout.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C He
- School of Psychological and Cognitive Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.
| | - Y Y Zhang
- Suzhou Psychiatric Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - J Y Zhan
- School of Psychological and Cognitive Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - C Wang
- School of Psychological and Cognitive Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - X D Du
- Suzhou Psychiatric Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - G Z Yin
- Suzhou Psychiatric Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - B Cao
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Y P Ning
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - J C Soares
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - X Y Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Psychiatry Research Center, Beijing HuiLongGuan hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The term "adrenal fatigue" ("AF") has been used by some doctors, healthcare providers, and the general media to describe an alleged condition caused by chronic exposure to stressful situations. Despite this, "AF" has not been recognized by any Endocrinology society, who claim there is no hard evidence for the existence. The aim of this systematic review is to verify whether there is substantiation for "AF". METHODS A systematic search was performed at PUBMED, MEDLINE (Ebsco) and Cochrane databases, from the beginning of the data until April 22nd, 2016. Searched key words were: "adrenal" + "fatigue", "adrenal" + "burnout", "adrenal" + "exhaustion", "hypoadrenia", "burnout" + "cortisol", "fatigue" + "cortisol", "clinical" + "burnout", "cortisol" + "vitalility", "adrenal" + "vitality", and "cortisol" + "exhaustion". Eligibility criteria were: (1) articles written in English, (2) cortisol profile and fatigue or energy status as the primary outcome, (3) performed tests for evaluating the adrenal axis, (4) absence of influence of corticosteroid therapy, and (5) absence of confounding diseases. Type of questionnaire to distinct fatigued subjects, population studied, tests performed of selected studies were analyzed. RESULTS From 3,470 articles found, 58 studies fulfilled the criteria: 33 were carried in healthy individuals, and 25 in symptomatic patients. The most assessed exams were "Direct Awakening Cortisol" (n = 29), "Cortisol Awakening Response" (n = 27) and "Salivary Cortisol Rhythm" (n = 26). DISCUSSION We found an almost systematic finding of conflicting results derived from most of the studies methods utilized, regardless of the validation and the quality of performed tests. Some limitations of the review include: (1) heterogeneity of the study design; (2) the descriptive nature of most studies; (3) the poor quality assessment of fatigue; (4) the use of an unsubstantiated methodology in terms of cortisol assessment (not endorsed by endocrinologists); (5) false premises leading to an incorrect sequence of research direction; and, (6) inappropriate/invalid conclusions regarding causality and association between different information. CONCLUSION This systematic review proves that there is no substantiation that "adrenal fatigue" is an actual medical condition. Therefore, adrenal fatigue is still a myth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavio A. Cadegiani
- From the Adrenal and Hypertension Unit, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (EPM/UNIFESP), R. Pedro de Toledo 781–13th floor, 04039-032 São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Claudio E. Kater
- From the Adrenal and Hypertension Unit, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (EPM/UNIFESP), R. Pedro de Toledo 781–13th floor, 04039-032 São Paulo, SP Brazil
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