Building Resilience
Five Steps to Combat Burnout in the Workplace
Burnout has become an increasingly prevalent issue in today’s fast-paced work environment. As a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and a business consultant specializing in mental health at work, I have observed the profound impact burnout can have on individuals and organizations. At Fisk Solutions, we are committed to helping businesses and employees thrive by proactively addressing burnout. In this article, we will explore what burnout is, why it matters, and evidence-based strategies for preventing it.
Understanding Burnout
Burnout is more than just feeling tired or stressed after a demanding week. It is a chronic state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion resulting from prolonged exposure to stressors, particularly in the workplace. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines burnout as a syndrome characterized by three key dimensions: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, increased mental distance from one’s job, and reduced professional efficacy (WHO, 2019). This condition affects individual well-being and has significant implications for organizational performance.
The Impact of Burnout
The consequences of burnout extend far beyond the individual. Research indicates that burnout is associated with decreased productivity, higher rates of absenteeism, and increased turnover (Maslach & Leiter, 2016). Additionally, chronic stress and burnout can lead to serious health issues, including cardiovascular disease, depression, and weakened immune function. From a business perspective, these outcomes can result in substantial financial losses and a decline in workplace morale.
A 2021 Gallup study found that 76% of employees experience burnout at least occasionally, with 28% reporting feeling burned out “very often” or “always.” These statistics underscore the urgent need for organizations to prioritize burnout prevention as part of their overall strategy for employee well-being and business success.
Strategies for Burnout Prevention
Preventing burnout requires a proactive approach that addresses both individual and organizational factors. Below are several evidence-based strategies to mitigate the risk of burnout:
Promote Work-Life Balance: Encouraging employees to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life is essential. Organizations can support this by setting clear expectations around work hours, discouraging after-hours communication, and offering flexible work arrangements. Employees, in turn, should feel empowered to set boundaries and prioritize self-care.
Foster a Supportive Work Environment: Open communication and a culture of support are critical in preventing burnout. Managers should regularly check in with their teams, provide opportunities for employees to voice concerns, and offer resources for stress management. Creating a psychologically safe workplace where employees feel valued and heard can significantly reduce the risk of burnout.
Encourage Regular Breaks: Taking breaks throughout the workday is not a luxury—it is a necessity. Research shows that short, frequent breaks can improve focus, creativity, and overall job performance (Kim et al., 2017). Employers should encourage employees to step away from their desks, take walks, or engage in mindfulness practices during the day.
Provide Access to Mental Health Resources: Offering access to mental health resources, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counseling services, or wellness initiatives, can help employees manage stress and build resilience. Normalizing conversations about mental health in the workplace can also reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help when needed.
Recognize and Reward Contributions: Feeling undervalued is a significant contributor to burnout. Regularly acknowledging employees’ hard work and achievements can boost morale and foster a sense of purpose. Recognition programs, whether formal or informal, can go a long way in creating a positive work environment.
In Conclusion
Burnout is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach to prevention. At Fisk Solutions, we believe that investing in burnout prevention is not just good for employees—it’s good for business. To learn more about how Fisk Solutions can help your organization create a healthier, more productive workplace, visit us at www.fisk.solutions < business services.
References
Maslach, C., & Leiter, M. P. (2016). Burnout: A Brief History and How to Prevent It. Annual Review of Psychology, 67, 1-24.
World Health Organization. (2019). Burn-out an "occupational phenomenon": International Classification of Diseases. Retrieved from https://www.who.int
Kim, S., Park, Y., & Headrick, L. (2017). Daily micro-breaks and job performance: A meta-analysis. Journal of Applied Psychology, 102(5), 772-786.
