Burnout among CMHC psychiatrists and the struggle to survive

Comments gathered in a national survey of community mental health center (CMHC) psychiatrists indicate that many suffer from burnout. Of the 96 respondents who provided comments, 46 expressed dissatisfaction with their work in CMHCs, 14 expressed satisfaction, and seven had mixed feelings. Factors contributing to the respondents' dissatisfaction included a lack of administrative support and validation, low pay, responsibility without authority, and pressure to sign documents related to patients unknown to them. Factors contributing to their satisfaction were having a variety of tasks, being valued for having uniquely comprehensive experience, being supported in the clinical oversight role, being in charge of CMHC operations, and working in a CMHC affiliated with an academic center or the medical community. The authors believe that CMHCs must redress the issues contributing to burnout among CMHC psychiatrists if they are to retain psychiatrists and provide quality patient care.