The Addressing Burnout workshop held on April 27, 2025, was a highly engaging and impactful virtual event that brought together over 20 mental health professionals and treatment practitioners from various backgrounds. Facilitated by Dr. Nathalie Panabokke, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with vast experience in advancing psychological well-being across clinical and humanitarian settings, the session focused on recognising, understanding, and managing burnout in high-demand professional environments.

The workshop began with an overview of burnout as defined by Pines and Aronson: a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion resulting from prolonged exposure to emotionally demanding situations. Dr. Panabokke outlined the three key dimensions of burnout: emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment. Using real-world examples and referencing the latest research, she helped participants understand how burnout manifests subtly and progressively, particularly in caregiving professions.

Participants were introduced to the emotional, physical, and behavioural symptoms of burnout, such as irritability, fatigue, social withdrawal, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and decreased motivation. Dr. Panabokke also discussed the link between chronic burnout and physical health risks like diabetes and frequent illness, making it clear how burnout affects not just emotional but overall health.

To support early detection and intervention, the workshop covered evidence-based assessment tools such as the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Burnout Assessment Tool, and the Areas of Worklife Survey. These tools provide professionals with frameworks to assess their own stress levels and organizational fit.

Dr. Panabokke then shifted focus toward recovery and prevention, emphasizing holistic well-being as a protective factor against burnout. She outlined five dimensions of well-being—emotional, physical, social, societal, and workplace—and stressed the importance of maintaining balance across all of them. Participants were encouraged to consider personal and systemic strategies to protect their well-being, including sleep hygiene, regular exercise, hydration, engaging in outdoor and mentally stimulating activities, and integrating mindfulness and reflective practices like journaling.

The workshop concluded with practical takeaways and a reminder of the importance of self-awareness, self-compassion, and sustainable boundaries in the helping professions. Participants expressed gratitude for the facilitator's grounded and evidence-based approach, and many noted how applicable the session was to their current work and personal well-being.

In summary, Addressing Burnout: Well-Being for Treatment Practitioners was a well-received, timely, and much-needed workshop that created a space for learning, reflection, and professional growth. Samutthana is grateful to Dr. Nathalie Panabokke for her valuable contribution and to all participants for their active engagement in making this session a meaningful success.