ART THERAPY AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING OCCUPATIONAL BURNOUT

Abstract

The article provides a theoretical and practical analysis of art therapy as an effective means of preventing professional burnout, which is becoming particularly relevant in the context of work intensification, digitalization, and increasing psychological stress on employees. The key signs and causes of emotional burnout syndrome are identified, including chronic stress, lack of internal motivation, and monotony of tasks, excessive responsibility, and constant accessibility to communications in the digital environment. The possibilities of the art therapy approach as a tool that promotes self-expression, emotional relief, development of the internal resource of the individual, and the formation of psychological resilience are considered. It is proven that it is through creative activity that a person gains access to unconscious experiences can reveal hidden tension, rethink their own internal conflicts, and emotionally «reboot» themselves. The psychotherapeutic potential of creativity is analysed in the context of reducing anxiety, tension, and apathy, increasing emotional tone, and harmonizing the internal state. Based on the analysis of scientific sources, clinical observations and practical experience, the article justifies the feasibility of integrating art therapy into corporate programs for maintaining mental health and preventing burnout. The features of conducting individual and group art therapy sessions for employees in various industries are outlined - education, medicine, social work, management, business. It is noted that even short-term art interventions can have a significant preventive effect if they are systematic and professional support. Practical recommendations are offered for the implementation of art therapy techniques into the system of psychological support for personnel. Including: creating a safe creative environment, regular art classes as a form of stress prevention, integrating elements of the art approach into soft skills training. The importance of forming a new culture of occupational psych hygiene, which combines technological capabilities with humanistic values and contributes to maintaining psychological balance, creative motivation and a healthy attitude to work, is emphasized.