Physiological Correlates of Burnout Syndrome Among Secondary School Teachers in Maiduguri, Borno State

Teacher burnout is a well-documented occupational phenomenon that carries significant physiological consequences, particularly in high-stress educational environments. This study assessed physiological correlates of burnout syndrome among secondary school teachers in Maiduguri, Borno State, North East Nigeria, a region where prolonged conflict has intensified professional stress. Ninety teachers from five schools were recruited. Burnout was measured using the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Physiological assessments included salivary cortisol, blood pressure, resting heart rate, and sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression were applied. Results showed high burnout prevalence: 53.3 percent exhibited high emotional exhaustion, 44.4 percent high depersonalisation, and 48.9 percent low personal accomplishment. Salivary cortisol was elevated in teachers with high emotional exhaustion scores. Blood pressure and resting heart rate were significantly correlated with overall burnout scores. Sleep quality was poor in 61.1 percent of participants, correlating strongly with burnout severity. The study concludes that burnout in Maiduguri teachers is associated with measurable physiological dysregulation, including neuroendocrine and cardiovascular changes. Institutional stress support programmes, teacher wellness policies, and conflict-sensitive mental health services are urgently recommended for schools in post-conflict North East Nigeria. Keywords: burnout, cortisol, teachers, sleep quality, Borno State.