When it comes to the emotional impact that exposure to workplace violence can have on healthcare providers, few things are more damaging than burnout and secondary traumatic stress. Burnout is a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress. It often results from long hours, high-pressure situations, and feelings of being undervalued or unappreciated. Secondary traumatic stress is a reaction to witnessing or hearing about another person's trauma, including symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Both of these conditions are particularly common among healthcare workers who regularly interact with victims of violence, but the relationship between them remains poorly understood. Some research suggests that relational satisfaction may play an important role in protecting against both burnout and secondary traumatic stress. This means that individuals who feel satisfied in their relationships - whether personal, professional, or otherwise - may be less likely to experience these negative effects of workplace violence.
This is because relationships provide a sense of belonging, support, and validation. They give us a reason to keep going when things get tough and make us feel like our efforts are worthwhile. When someone feels supported and valued by those around them, they are less likely to become burnt out or suffer from secondary traumatic stress. On the other hand, feeling isolated or unsupported can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, which can exacerbate burnout and secondary traumatic stress.
In addition to providing psychological benefits, relationships also help buffer against the physiological effects of stress. Studies have found that people in satisfying relationships tend to have lower levels of cortisol - a hormone associated with stress response - than those in unsatisfying ones. This suggests that having a strong social network helps us cope with difficult situations more effectively.
Maintaining healthy relationships is essential for anyone working in high-stress environments. Healthcare providers must find ways to build meaningful connections with colleagues, patients, and loved ones outside of work. In doing so, they can reduce their risk of burnout and secondary traumatic stress while improving their overall well-being.
How does relational satisfaction influence susceptibility to burnout and secondary traumatic stress?
Relationship satisfaction is believed to impact the vulnerability of individuals towards developing burnout and secondary trauma symptoms. When an individual has positive relationships with their coworkers and supervisors, they are more likely to experience job satisfaction and enjoy going to work every day. This can increase their resilience towards stressful situations at work, thereby reducing the risk of burnout.