Interesting research published in HBR indicates that employees have become ‘desensitized’ to burnout. In fact, being dis-stressed and burned out have become ‘normalized’ in our workplaces.
Yet, as we published before in our newsletters, burnout is a serious medical emergency. This current research finds that the effects of burnout are more debilitating than ever, and much younger workers are experiencing symptoms.
WebMD defines burnout as a form of exhaustion caused by constantly feeling swamped. It happens when we experience too much emotional, physical, and mental fatigue for too long. Experts describe the emotional symptoms of burnout as:
- Helplessness.
- Cynicism.
- Sense of failure or self-doubt.
- Decreased satisfaction.
- Feeling detached or alone in the world.
- Loss of motivation.
The HBR author notes that negativity or cynicism towards one’s job, and underperformance lead to significant chronic diseases such as,
- Sleep disturbances
- Cardiovascular disease
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Depression
- Absenteeism, and
- Job dissatisfaction.
Meanwhile, burned-out workers are more likely to make errors and less likely to be innovative and productive.
The author emphasized that what is most shocking is that burnout is not shocking and instead is perceived to be inevitable for employees, managers, and executives. Interventions are needed to promote well-being, foster a healthy workplace culture, and prevent this misconception of normalizing stress and burnout!
Therefore, instead of making a medical crisis ‘inevitable’,
- Support Mental and Emotional Well-Being
- Offer Energy Management and Resilience Initiatives for Executives, Managers, and Employees
- Foster the 7 Signs of a Healthy Workplace Culture at Your Organization
- Encourage Collaboration and a Positive Social Working Environment
- Protect Off-Work Times and Ensure Vacation Times are Taken
What else would you suggest? Contact us to discuss options and ways to cultivate a safe and sound workplace!