Burnout is a reality that many pharmacists face, and I’m no exception to this struggle. Over the years, studies have revealed that at least half of all pharmacists experience burnout, yet there’s a pervasive notion that it’s a personal issue — a burden we must navigate alone. This mindset can leave us feeling defeated before we even begin to address the root causes of our exhaustion.

Burnout, as defined by the World Health Organization, is a recognized diagnosis stemming from chronic workplace stress that hasn’t been effectively managed. I often describe burnout as the painful disconnect between who you are and what you do. For instance, as a pharmacist dedicated to helping people, it’s disheartening when daily tasks feel like they prioritize organizational metrics over genuine patient care. This disconnect can lead to an erosion of the soul, causing harmful psychological effects. Many of us are conditioned to be people pleasers, often finding ourselves asking, “Why can’t I handle this?” despite our intelligence and skills. When you feel like you’ve got nothing left in your emotional bank, it’s no surprise that the simplest interactions can lead to frustration or feelings of isolation.

Burnout manifests in three key ways: depersonalization, emotional exhaustion, and a lack of personal accomplishment. You might find yourself indifferent to patients’ needs, feeling utterly drained, or questioning whether you’re making any meaningful progress in your career. Anger and frustration become commonplace, and it’s alarming how these feelings can spiral into more significant issues like depression, anxiety, and even thoughts of self-harm.

My own journey into burnout took me by surprise. After completing my residency and stepping into ambulatory care, I was eager to make a difference. Unfortunately, I encountered two bullies in my workplace — one my assigned mentor and the other my boss — who actively undermined me. Their behavior made me feel trapped; I had just bought a house and didn’t want to leave. I didn’t realize how deeply their actions impacted me until I found myself emotionally disengaging from my patients, viewing them as mere problems rather than individuals in need.

There was a moment during a particularly trying day when a patient called, and rather than feeling empathy, I felt irritation at the inconvenience. I had to take a walk to clear my head, fearing that if I didn’t, I would lash out at my family when I got home. That was my wake-up call — I was becoming a version of myself I didn’t recognize. I had once been excited about my work in pharmacy, and yet here I was, feeling unfulfilled and resentful.

It’s crucial to understand why burnout happens. Work overload, lack of support, and a breakdown of community are significant contributors. When you’re overworked and don’t have a reliable team, it’s easy to feel isolated. The absence of control or autonomy in your work, such as dealing with micromanagement or systemic inefficiencies, only exacerbates the feeling of helplessness. But perhaps the most poignant cause is the conflicting values we face in our profession. We enter pharmacy to help people, yet often find ourselves in situations where we feel like we’re merely working for a paycheck.

Burnout is rarely an individual issue; it’s almost always rooted in the work environment. If you’ve ever felt like your burnout was a personal failing, I want to assure you that it isn’t. Most solutions aimed at individuals don’t tackle the environmental causes. Instead, effective change requires a system-wide approach, focusing on proper staffing, delegation, and fostering a supportive community.

So, how can we combat burnout? It’s essential to embrace the mantra of “doing less, not more.” This may sound counterintuitive in a world that glorifies busyness, but it’s the truth. My mentor used to tell me, “Stop being a human doing and just be a human being.” Self-care strategies like mindfulness and meditation are important but should be seen as complements to, not substitutes for, addressing systemic issues.

Building a support network is vital. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues and share your experiences. It may feel vulnerable to admit you’re struggling, but opening up can provide relief and connection. Seeking professional help, whether through therapy or counseling, can also be a crucial step in overcoming burnout. Time away from the workplace, whether through a short vacation or longer leave, can provide the clarity needed to reassess your situation.

Ultimately, the most effective solution I discovered was to leave my job. I know this can seem daunting, but if your environment is causing your emotional distress, it’s worth considering other options. There are organizations out there that value their employees and prioritize their well-being. It’s essential to create a plan and take action, just like anyone who’s ever tried to make a positive change in their life.

Change can be challenging, especially when you feel stuck in a cycle of learned helplessness. But you deserve to be in an environment that supports your well-being. I’ve worked with countless individuals who successfully transitioned to fulfilling roles, and I believe you can do it too. If you’re feeling trapped in your current situation, consider seeking guidance. There are resources available, and the first step towards a healthier, happier career often begins with reaching out for help.

If you’re in a leadership position, remember that you hold the power to foster change in your organization. People don’t leave bad companies; they leave bad bosses. Listen to your team, act on their feedback, and create a culture where pharmacists feel valued. The future of pharmacy depends on it.