SINDROM PROFESIONALNOG SAGOREVANJA KOD SOCIJALNIH RADNIKA I ZNAČAJ MENTALNOG ZDRAVLJA POMAGAČA

Abstract

This paper deals with the problem of professional burnout syndrome among social workers, the factors that contribute to the occurrence of this phenomenon and the importance of prevention and care for the mental health of professional helpers. In addition to the theoretical analysis of this phenomena and risk factors associated with the nature of the social worker’s professional role, the paper also presents the results of research on the existence of professional burnout syndrome among social workers on the territory of Serbia. The presence of parameters that indicate the occurrence of burnout syndrome among professional workers within the social protection system was established. Elevated levels of stress, tension and emotional exhaustion were noted, as well as the presence of apathy, lack of connection with clients and reduced self-care. Competencies for working with clients and self-image remained preserved. Finally, the paper presents possible ways to prevent the occurrence of burnout syndrome.