Former WHO Scientist Highlights Burnout Risk Due to Overwork

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Former WHO Chief Scientist and Health Ministry Advisor Soumya Swaminathan has stressed the importance of listening to one's body and recognizing the need for rest, as prolonged overwork can lead to burnout and decreased productivity.

In an exclusive interview with PTI, Swaminathan emphasized that while intense work for short periods, as witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic, is possible, it is not sustainable in the long term.

"Productivity depends more on the quality of work than the number of hours worked," said Swaminathan. Reflecting on the challenges faced during the pandemic, she acknowledged that many healthcare professionals worked long hours under significant stress, leading to burnout.

"During Covid, we worked tirelessly, but maintaining such an intense pace for years is not feasible," she noted.

Swaminathan also underscored that mental well-being and adequate rest are critical for sustaining long-term productivity and performance.