Int Conf AIDS 1993 Jun 6-11; 9:119 (abstract no. WS-D16-1) Chew JK; Malaysian Council of NGOs on AIDS, Kuala Lumpur.
"Burnout" is a loose term used to describe what happens to some people in the caring profession when they have given of themselves too much for too long, have become drained and have been lacking support--financially and emotionally, quality time off etc.... The first signs of danger is when a warm caring person begins to distance himself or herself from people, in order to gain protection from further suffering. The person may become so very depressed, bursting into tears for no apparent reason, taking time off work, sleeping badly and not coping at all. This volunteer is a good candidate for burnout. Volunteers constantly crack up and pack up due to fatigue and personality clashes. United we must avoid such recurrences if people with AIDS are to be cared for.
Keywords: AEGIS, Voluntary Workers, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Caregivers, Anxiety Disorders, Adaptation, Psychological, Empathy, Grief, Counseling, Occupations, ICA9 930606
WSD161
