Understanding emotional fatigue: a systematic review of causes, consequences, and coping strategies.

Abstract

Emotional fatigue, a significant component of burnout, is increasingly recognized as a critical issue affecting healthcare professionals and other high-stress occupations. This systematic review identifies the causes, consequences, and coping strategies associated with emotional fatigue in healthcare workers. A comprehensive search of peer-reviewed articles was conducted across multiple databases. The selection criteria focused on studies that explicitly addressed emotional fatigue, its determinants, impacts, and coping mechanisms. The review identified common causes of emotional fatigue, such as prolonged exposure to high-stress environments, lack of social support, and insufficient recovery time. Consequences include decreased job performance, increased absenteeism, and a higher risk of mental health disorders. Coping strategies include mindfulness practices, organizational support, and the implementation of work-life balance interventions. The findings underscore the importance of addressing emotional fatigue through both individual and systemic approaches. While coping strategies can mitigate some effects, organizational changes are essential to create a supportive work environment. Emotional fatigue is a critical issue that requires attention at both the individual and organizational levels.