PSYCHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE INTERRELATIONSHIP BETWEEN OCCUPATIONAL BURNOUT AND PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE WORKERS

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to carry out a comprehensive theoretical analysis of the relationship between professional burnout and the use of psychoactive substances as a maladaptive strategy for overcoming chronic stress, as well as to identify the main factors and consequences of this addiction in modern working conditions. The research methodology is based on the methods of theoretical analysis, systematization and generalization of scientific literary sources. An interdisciplinary approach was applied, combining developments in the fields of labor psychology, clinical psychology and neurobiology to explain the mechanisms of stress reactions and addictive behavior. The scientific novelty of the article highlights the clarified psychological mechanism of the transition of professional burnout to the phase of substance abuse through the prism of neurobiological changes (in particular, a decrease in dopamine levels and impaired emotional self-regulation). The focus is on the specifics of the emergence of these processes in the post-pandemic period and the closed cycle “stress – maladaptive coping – deepening of the crisis” is highlighted, which allows us to take a new look at the system of occupational health prevention. Conclusions. Occupational burnout is a serious risk factor for the development of addictive behavior, since the use of psychoactive substances often becomes an attempt to “selfmedicate” in response to emotional exhaustion. It has been established that the lack of proper resources for recovery and constant pressure on productivity lead to destructive consequences: from cognitive disorders and professional errors to severe mood disorders and suicidal risk. Solving this problem requires systemic changes in corporate culture and the implementation of psychological support programs aimed at developing healthy coping strategies in employees.