Physical activity-based interventions to reduce burnout syndrome: a systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: Burnout syndrome is one of the main mental health problems associated with the contemporary work environment, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and decreased professional fulfillment. In this context, interventions based on physical activity have been proposed as preventive and therapeutic strategies to improve the psychological well-being of workers and reduce the impact of occupational stress.

Objective: To synthesize and analyze the available scientific evidence on physical activity-based interventions aimed at reducing burnout syndrome in workers.

Material and methods: The review was developed following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A search was carried out in the Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases that, after the process of identification, screening, and methodological evaluation, included 16 studies.

Results: Physical activity-based interventions can be grouped into four main categories, highlighting recreational leisure-time physical activity, structured physical exercise programs, mind-body interventions such as yoga and mindfulness, and general moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity. These interventions were generally associated with a reduction in burnout levels, particularly in the dimension of emotional exhaustion, as well as improvements in psychological well-being, resilience and recovery from work-related stress.

Conclusion: Physical activity is positioned as a promising and accessible strategy for the prevention and reduction of burnout in workers, although its effectiveness depends on individual, organizational and contextual factors, such as sociodemographic characteristics, working conditions, institutional support and the design of intervention programs.