“Bolstered, supported and more resilient to potential burnout”: GP trainee experience of Balint groups

General practice is in crisis, and something needs to be done to help retain GPs. Balint groups are a potential option through helping reduce burnout. Balint groups are a facilitated small group discussing challenging cases, focused on the doctor-patient relationship. There are suggestions of benefit, however the literature is not sufficiently robust, particularly in relation to burnout. This study used interpretative phenomenological analysis to explore in detail the experiences of three qualified GPs who were part of a Balint group during their GP training. Balint group participation as a GP trainee provided psychological benefits (catharsis, deep reflection, enjoyment and reducing burnout) as well as social benefits (peer support, differing perspectives and shared experiences). There were unique attributes of Balint group sessions compared to other small group teaching sessions and participants had limited prior awareness of Balint groups. Competing interests and a sense of discomfort were negative aspects. The experience of being part of a Balint group as a GP trainee is predominantly positive, including a lasting protective factor against burnout, and it provides unique benefits compared to other forms of small group teaching. Consideration should be given to offering Balint groups as part of GP training.