Objective: Burnout is a process of physical and emotional exhaustion that often results in clinical depression. Detailed descriptions and evaluations of specialized psychosomatic treatment are rare. This pilot study investigates the feasibility of inpatient and day hospital treatment of patients with burnout syndrome. Additionally, we present results of an initial, noncontrolled, pre-post-evaluation of changes in symptoms and individual work-related risk factors for burnout.
Methods: Sixty-four consecutive patients with burnout syndrome were assessed before and after specialized multimodal treatment using a clinical symptom checklist (ICD-10 Symptom Rating) and burnout-specific instruments (Maslach Burnout Inventory, Occupational Stress & Coping Inventory).
Results: Patients' average age was 45 (range 23 to 61), 70% were currently employed, 24% in managerial positions or self-employed, and 89% diagnosed with an affective disorder. The average length of time off work due to illness in the past year was 13 weeks. Treatment lasted five weeks on average. After treatment, depression (p < 0.001; effect size d = 0.79), emotional exhaustion (p = 0.001; d = 0.41), and the subjective significance of work (p = 0.001; d = 0.36) decreased, while emotional distancing (p < 0.001; d = 0.56), balance and mental stability (p < 0.001; d = 0.38) and life satisfaction (p < 0.001; d = 0.37) increased. Clinical significance was determined using the Reliable Change Index.
Conclusions: The treatment program described here is well accepted by patients with severe burnout. It contributes to positive changes in symptoms and work-related risk factors. Controlled studies are necessary to establish treatment efficacy.
Keywords: Burnout; Day Hospital Treatment; Depression; Inpatient Psychosomatic Treatment; Psychotherapy; Work-related Behaviors and Experiences.