"I clearly have some wiring that's not quite right" how general practitioners with lived experience of burnout describe personal factors related to their burnout: a qualitative study using in-depth interviews.

Abstract

To explore the personal factors that burned out GPs feel could have predisposed them to their burnout. Secondary analysis of in-depth qualitative interviews with 16 UK GPs with "lived experience" of burnout. United Kingdom Primary Care. Seven male and nine female GPs described the personal characteristics and experiences they believed contributed to their burnout. Themes identified were perfectionism; neurodivergence specifically likely autism; past trauma, including childhood trauma; and a sense of "imposter syndrome". Participants were articulate and self-aware in the multifactorial causes of burnout, as well as their personal strengths. They identified longstanding traits that could increase vulnerability to burnout, they were often linked with empathy, conscientiousness, and commitment to patient care. Despite the challenges described, participants demonstrated resilience and a strong vocational identity as GPs. Burnout among GPs arises from complex interactions between personal and systemic factors. Traits such as perfectionism, neurodivergence, and prior trauma were described by participants as shaping vulnerability to burnout, while also underpinning the empathy and dedication valued in general practice. Recognizing and supporting, rather than pathologising, these vulnerabilities could help reduce stigma and enable earlier, more effective support. A systems-based approach that acknowledges the humanity of doctors is essential to sustaining a healthy, compassionate workforce. Further research should explore how best to support neurodivergent GPs and those with histories of trauma.