Resources
MEASURES
At first, it can be hard to know if what you're experiencing is indeed burnout. As a first step, you could complete a self-report measure such as The Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI), which is widely available for free online.
The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) is the leading measure for burnout, available to purchase here: https://www.mindgarden.com/content/34-burnout-solutions
The Areas of Worklife Survey (AWS), available as a companion to the MBI, measures specific aspects of the work environment which may be contributing to burnout. There are different versions available for medical personnel, human services workers, and educators.
If you are on the Autistic Spectrum you may also wish to complete the Autistic Burnout Construct (ABO), available here: https://embrace-autism.com/autistic-burnout-construct/
BOOKS
There are several excellent books available on burnout and on staying resourced as a person in the helping professions. Here are just a few that we love:
Help for the Helper (2023) by Babette Rothschild. A great resource aimed at therapists, but useful for anyone at risk of compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma in their job.
Burnout (2024) by Dr Claire Plumbly. A wonderfully clear and thorough guide on understanding burnout and how to recover from it.
Fierce Self-Compassion (2021) by Dr Kristin Neff. How women can harness the power of self-compassion to thrive at work and in general.
When the Body Says No (2019) by Gabor Mate. A clear and scientific explanation of the link between stress and illness.
The Burnout Society (2015) by Byung-Chul Han. A deeper look at the role of competitive societies in burnout.
Divergent Mind (2021) by Jenara Nerenberg. An neuro-affirmative study helping neurodivergent women to make sense of their differences and to find ways to thrive, with a great chapter on the challenges of work.
Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times (2020) by Katherine May. A meditation on times when we must retreat and care for ourselves.
PODCASTS
You are not a Frog: a podcast for doctors and people in the helping professions https://youarenotafrog.com/
The Burnout Recovery Podcast by Dr Jo Braid: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-burnout-recovery-podcast/id1651327553
