The formation and prevention of burnout

Abstract

The mental well-being of teachers cannot be considered as a private matter: they set an example with their behaviour to the pupils they educate and teach. In the helping profession the main tool of the individual is his or her own personality, and the protection or maintenance of this requires enhanced attention, awareness and responsibility in the individual’s life. Different professional situations challenge helpers, because their responsibility extends to the people who are entrusted to them. Other than doubled responsibility throughout practicing their profession they are exposed to enhanced spiritual and physical strain, which makes an impression and can leave a mark on their spiritual, physical or mental health, therefore, conscious professional presence and responsibility has inestimable value. The teaching profession is a stressful job. Without the protection or maintenance of the individuals’ personality, he or she risks his or her health. The manifestation of this imprint or mark could be the phenomenon of burnout. Burnout is the spiritual, physical and emotional exhaustion formed by prolonged strain and stress, during which in their social interactions the individuals cannot judge realistically either their own or other people’s behaviour or performance in their environment. Negative self-evaluation and a more negative peer perception than reality is common. Work-related goals are devalued; the joy of working and the creative enthusiasm disappears and the individual’s ability to cope is impaired. In the process of preventing burnout, the drafting of prevention options is necessary on personal and organizational levels.