Impact of post-traumatic stress disorder and job-related stress on burnout: a study of fire service workers

Burnout and stress are common, related problems in service professionals, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a major concern among fire service workers. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of PTSD and job-related stressors on burnout. A total of 243 fire service workers completed questionnaires, including the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), and Japan Brief Job Stress Questionnaire. Relationships were found between PTSD and burnout, and between job stressors and burnout. Social support reduced the impact on burnout. Stressors that impacted on burnout in fire service personnel were PTSD-related acute stress and general job-related chronic stress. Countermeasures, not only against job stress, but also against PTSD-related stress, are essential to prevent burnout. Social support and the development of human relationships in the work place are crucial in mitigating burnout.