Assessment of burnout levels in association with personal and occupational characteristics of pharmacists in Lebanon amid the economic crisis and ongoing conflicts

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Background: Burnout, recognized by the World Health Organization as an occupational phenomenon, is prevalent among health workers, including pharmacists. It results from prolonged work-related stress, leading to cumulative emotional exhaustion that can impair cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses. This can adversely impact interactions with coworkers and clients, posing risks to patient safety. In Lebanon, the compounded effects of the ongoing economic crisis and recent conflicts may have intensified burnout across all sectors, particularly among healthcare professionals such as pharmacists. Objectives: This study focused on Lebanese pharmacists to evaluate how the economic crisis and ongoing conflicts influence burnout levels and to explore associations between burnout and sociodemographic and work-related characteristics. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 277 pharmacists in Lebanon from July to October 2024. Data were collected through a structured self-reported questionnaire focusing on sociodemographic information, work-related factors, and burnout symptoms. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results: Of the pharmacists surveyed, 24.2% reported experiencing burnout, 35.4% expressed frustration with daily tasks, and 30.0% felt overwhelmed by work responsibilities. Burnout was more prevalent among pharmacists aged 25 to 35, those who were single, participants with a perceived lower-than-average economic status, and those working over 40 h per week. Additionally, pharmacists with six to ten years of experience reported higher burnout levels than those with over ten years of practice. Conclusion: Findings underscore the significant impact of sociodemographic and economic factors on burnout levels among pharmacists in Lebanon. Significant associations were found between burnout and age, marital status, economic status, years of experience, and weekly working hours. Targeted interventions to manage stress and prevent burnout are essential to promote workforce stability and uphold healthcare quality during crises.