Work Stress and Burnout in Ireland's IT Industry: Evaluating Prevalence and Psychotherapeutic Approaches
Authors
Gokmen, Huseyin Anil
Issue Date
2026.13.01
Degree
Counselling and Psychotherapy - 10788/2210
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
Open Access
Abstract
Work-related stress and burnout represent significant challenges within the demanding Irish Information Technology (IT) sector. This library-based dissertation explores the application and evaluates the evidence for psychotherapy-informed interventions in mitigating these issues within this specific context. The review establishes the high prevalence and impact of stress and burnout, driven by factors including intense pressure, job insecurity, and remote work challenges unique to the sector. An evaluation of individual-level interventions (such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Employee Assistance Programmes) indicates varied effectiveness, primarily for stress and exhaustion. They appear to have a limited impact on cynicism or professional efficacy and significant dependency on organisational context. Findings reveal a gap between systemic workplace stressors and the focus of individual interventions. It is concluded that while psychotherapy-informed approaches offer valuable individual coping tools, more research in the area is needed about integrated strategies combining individual support with organisational-level changes addressing psychosocial safety are essential for sustainable well-being in the Irish IT industry.