What is Workaholism

This chapter provides a broad overview of the prevalence of burnout among academics. Burnout is a syndrome which has one or more of the following central features: detachment from co-workers, clients and/or work; decreased energy levels; physical ailments; and issues such as eating disorders, drug or alcohol abuse, decreased social contacts, and marital discord. The purpose of this chapter is to outline the links between various contributory factors and burnout amongst the academic population. Optimal management processes, including self-care and staff wellness programs, are anticipated to be key in reducing burnout and improving the quality of life for academics.