Burnout among summer camp staff supporting people with intellectual disability and aggression.

Studies have shown that there is an association between exposure to people with intellectual disability who are aggressive and burnout in the staff who support them. Little is known, however, about the experience of summer camp staff who work with this population. This study examined the relationship between aggression and burnout in 169 staff members working at summer camps in Ontario, Canada. The questionnaire used included demographic information, exposure to aggression (frequency and severity), and the Maslach Burnout Inventory--Human Services Survey. Results showed that summer camp staff was exposed to frequent and relatively severe aggression. Severe exposure was associated with higher levels of emotional exhaustion and personal accomplishment. Given that summer camp staff is likely to be exposed to at least some aggression in their summer job, and that this aggression is associated with burnout, greater attention should be paid to training and supporting staff for when aggression occurs.

An overview of traumatic brain injury and suicide.

PURPOSE: There is concerning evidence that people with traumatic brain injury (TBI) may be at increased risk for suicide. This paper aims to provide an overview of traumatic brain injury and suicide in order to enhance the ability of professionals to recognize and manage suicidality in patients with TBI. METHODS: First, the association between TBI and suicide is reviewed. Proposed psychological, psychosocial and neuropathological factors are included in the discussion. Next, identifiable risk factors for suicide in TBI are presented. Suicide assessment tools are then discussed. Assessment is emphasized as the mainstay of suicide prevention and clinicians are encouraged to be vigilant for potential suicidality in their patients with TBI. Finally, biopsychosocial interventions for suicidality are reviewed. CONCLUSIONS: This paper concludes that increasing awareness of depression and suicide risk assessment in the TBI population should be aimed towards staff involved in neuro-rehabilation as well as other professionals who are involved in the care of patients with TBI, because psychoeducation of those most likely to come in contact with at-risk individuals have been shown to increase identification of suicidal patients, lowering suicide rates.