Using Concepts of Photovoice to Engage in Discussions Related to Burnout and Wellbeing

TL;DR

This study explores how connecting students with community health workers through photovoice helps address burnout and improve understanding of healthcare challenges.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel photovoice method to engage students and health workers in discussing burnout and well-being.

Findings

Four factors contributing to burnout were identified: workload demands, unrealistic expectations, time dedicated to care, and lack of work–life balance.

Students gained insights into self-care, career exposure, and a sense of connection through the photovoice exhibit.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify essential skills and abilities for mitigating job-related stressors and preventing burnout while also establishing connections between students and community health workers to provide students with a deeper comprehension of the challenges inherent to their future professions. Ten community health workers were interviewed and asked to present photographs that explored sources of burnout and promotions of well-being. The photographs along with quotes were displayed in a gallery style exhibit for students to view and talk with the community health workers and complete a survey. Using thematic analysis, the interviews resulted in four common factors that contribute to burnout: (1) workload demands, (2) unrealistic exceptions, (3) amount of time dedicated to care, and (4) lack of work–life balance. The themes that emerged from student responses were (1) learning self-care practices, (2) gaining insight into the need for self-care, (3) a sense of connection, and (4) exposure to different healthcare careers. This study demonstrates the importance of connecting students with community health workers. It increases understanding of the demands of their future professions as well as resources and engagement opportunities available to them as a part of their respective professional community.