BURNOUT SYNDROME AND THE ROLE OF HUMOR IN NURSES' MENTAL HEALTH

Abstract

Introduction: Burnout Syndrome is a critical occupational health problem among nurses, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. The demanding nature of the profession, with high workloads and constant exposure to suffering, predisposes these professionals to exhaustion, with repercussions on the quality of care and patient safety. Objective: To analyze the factors associated with the development of Burnout Syndrome in nursing professionals and the role of humor as a coping strategy and for promoting mental health. Methodology: This is a bibliographic review with a qualitative approach. Scientific articles published between 2019 and 2024 were selected from the SciELO, LILACS, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases, using the descriptors "Burnout Syndrome", "Nursing", "Humor", and "Coping Strategies". The final sample consisted of 10 sources. Analysis and discussion of results: The analysis identified that the triggering factors for Burnout are multifactorial, including work overload, poor working conditions, and emotional pressure. On the other hand, it was evidenced that humor, when used adaptively, acts as an emotional regulator, promotes team cohesion, and helps reframe adverse situations, constituting a valid tool for occupational resilience. Conclusion: It is concluded that identifying risk factors is essential, and humor is configured as an accessible and effective coping strategy. Its incorporation into mental health promotion practices in the work environment is recommended, as a complement to broader structural transformations in healthcare organizations.

Descriptors: Burnout, Professional; Nursing; Humor; Mental Health; Coping Strategies.