Occupational burnout and perceived barriers at work in Polish neurologists

Burnout syndrome is a prolonged response to chronic work-related stress, characterized by exhaustion accompanied by mental and physical discomfort, a sense of reduced effectiveness and motivation, dysfunctional attitudes and behaviors at work. Neurologists are recognized as a high-risk group, but no large-scale study has previously examined burnout in this professional group in Poland.

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of burnout among Polish neurologists and to identify individual and organizational predictors, as well as perceived work-related barriers to effective practice.

A cross-sectional online survey [Computer-Assisted Web Interview (CAWI)] was conducted among members of the Polish Neurological Society (n = 342). Burnout was assessed using the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI), alongside validated measures of depressive symptoms, insomnia, loneliness, occupational hardiness, occupational self-efficacy, and psychosocial work conditions. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to identify predictors of the dimensions of burnout: exhaustion and disengagement.

A high prevalence of burnout was found: 87.0% of respondents met the criteria for exhaustion and 77.5% for disengagement. Being of a younger age was a predictive factor for exhaustion, while living in a larger city slightly reduced disengagement. Severity of depression and work pace were significant predictors of higher levels of both burnout dimensions. More severe exhaustion was additionally associated with higher emotional and quantitative job demands, insomnia, and - unexpectedly - greater peer support. Protective factors included workplace commitment, occupational self-efficacy, professional development opportunities, and occupational hardiness. The most frequently cited barriers in the workplace were administrative overload (85.4%), high work pace (64.0%), and staff shortages (56.7%).

Burnout is highly prevalent among Polish neurologists, driven by both individual vulnerabilities (belonging to a younger age group, depression, insomnia) and organizational stressors (workload, administrative burden). Strengthening professional resources such as self-efficacy and hardiness, enhancing career development opportunities, and reducing bureaucratic workload are essential strategies. Targeted interventions are needed, particularly for early-career neurologists, in order to maintain well-being and ensure sustainable neurological care.