Feelin' the burn: Post-pandemic burnout among United States neuropsychologists

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Burnout is a significant issue in many professions, including neuropsychology.
• Research indicated elevated burnout in neuropsychologists during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• This study examines post-pandemic burnout levels and contributing factors in neuropsychology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess current burnout levels in neuropsychologists post-pandemic.
• To identify factors contributing to burnout in this field.
• To evaluate the pandemic's impact on neuropsychologist burnout.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 304 U.S. neuropsychologists assessing demographics, professional background, burnout (Copenhagen Burnout Inventory), and pandemic impact.
• Statistical analyses included frequency calculations, MANOVA, chi-square tests, ANCOVA, t-tests, and Pearson correlations.
• Burnout levels were compared across demographics, professional background, and subspecialties.

Main Results:

• Respondents reported moderate personal (M=53.10) and work (M=52.17) burnout, and mild patient (M=36.88) burnout.
• While COVID-19 increased burnout, most participants experienced it before the pandemic.
• Higher personal and work burnout were observed in women and younger, early-career clinicians; no differences were found across subspecialties.

Conclusions:

• Neuropsychologists experience significant personal and work burnout, exacerbated by the pandemic but often originating earlier.
• Women and early-career professionals are particularly vulnerable.
• Continued monitoring and intervention strategies are crucial for reducing burnout and optimizing patient care in the post-pandemic era.