1. Burnout: Chronic stress can lead to burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment.
2. Mental Health Issues: The emotional toll can manifest as anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, impacting the overall well-being of epidemiologists.
3. Decreased Productivity: Emotional stress can lead to decreased productivity and impaired decision-making, which can hinder the effectiveness of disease control efforts.
4. Attrition: High levels of stress and emotional fatigue can lead to attrition, with experienced professionals leaving the field, thereby exacerbating the challenges faced by the public health system.
