Life Satisfaction and Burnout Among Graduate Students: A Systematized Review

Doctoral students were more affected by mental health problems than the general population, frequently citing constant strain, feelings of unhappiness and depression, and loss of sleep due to worry. These mental health concerns tended to interfere with general life satisfaction among graduate students. One of the most significant factors that affected graduate students’ life satisfaction was burnout. Therefore, this systematized literature review aimed to discover how life satisfaction and burnout affected graduate students. Specifically, it explored and synthesized existing empirical evidence about definitions of life satisfaction and burnout, and the relationship between life satisfaction and burnout among graduate students. In addition, it sought to understand the reported protective factors to reduce burnout and increase life satisfaction among graduate students. Implications for assisting higher education institutions in creating inclusive and supportive environments for graduate students were also discussed.