Examining the Relationship Between Burnout and Specific Self-Care Practices in Mental Health Professionals in Pakistan

This study is based on burnout and self-care practices of mental health professionals. Mental health professionals are working in an environment where they provide one-sided care, in which they have to give empathy, compassion, and care without getting it in return from the clients. This one-way connection requires lots of energy and effort, increasing the risk of stress and burnout, resulting in disturbed emotional and physical health. A mental health professional’s disturbed health can lead to compromised client therapy outcomes. Subsequently, self-care is considered to be an essential tool to minimize negative consequences, and it increases positive outcomes and improves quality of life. The objective of the study is to assess the relationship between burnout and six domains of self-care (physical self-care, psychological, emotional, spiritual, workplace, and balance). It is a cross-sectional, survey design research. Participants included in the study are practicing mental health professionals, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Around 385 participants were included in the study from all over Pakistan. Results of the study indicate a significant relationship between burnout and self-care.