Dear Beit Midrash Eitz Chaim Family,
I am excited to tell you about a new project that I am currently working on. In the midst of this Covid-19 pandemic we have all been experiencing burnout in some form.
Dr. Herbert Freudenberger, first coined the term Burnout in 1974. He was chosen 1983 Psychologist of the Year by The American Psychological Association. He was a visionary mental health professional and thought leader worldwide. His family, representing The Freudenberger Estate and legal owner of his classic 1980 manuscript, are committed to preserving and updating Dr. Freudenberger’s legacy and offering something back to the community-at-large, by republishing his book with an updated version that will include new academic information assembled with the help of scholars from many fields of expertise and I have been asked to be part of this incredible project.
This book also will include personal stories and perspectives of frontline workers, clergy, teachers, CEO’s and industry leaders on how they conduct business and cope with burnout among themselves and in the workforce. Dr. Joseph Maroon, renowned neurosurgeon and lecturer on burnout and team neurosurgeon for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is consulting on this project.
We have all had to make quick pivots this year, in order to navigate through this pandemic, without a roadmap, in order for our teachers, our parents and our companies to develop strategies so that our children and our employees are able to succeed and not burn out. All the societal and business norms have been readjusted and work life and home life are conflated, impacting our workforce in stressful ways.
Prior to this pandemic, The World Health Organization expanded its classification of diseases to include Burnout as an “occupational phenomenon.” It is “a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.” The term “Burnout” is familiar to the public. Like Catch 22—a book title also subliminally ingrained in popular culture as describing an unattainable situation, Burnout rings true beyond its psychological diagnosis. Burnout in the 21st century is rampant, as is loneliness, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, it seems all the more apt to publish an updated edition
The book’s well-proven past credibility and national recognition, combined with new, pertinent information, promises to introduce Burnout symptoms, cures, and prevention to a new generation of readers worldwide.
If you are interested in participating in this project, please be in touch with me.
Our website is currently in progress, if you would like more information.
L'shalom, Rabbi Rosen