Navigating employee burnout in the workplace
Employee burnout is a common issue in the workplace. Many employees are feeling overwhelmed by the demands of their jobs, which is negatively impacting their job performance, productivity, and, most importantly, their mental and physical health. In 2023, 65% of employees reported experiencing burnout, and 72% said it affected their job performance.1 With the threat of burnout looming in the workplace, it's important to recognize the signs and find ways to prevent employees from experiencing its effects.
What is employee burnout and why does it matter?
The World Health Organization defines burnout as a work-related syndrome caused by chronic workplace stress that hasn't been successfully managed.2 It's often characterized by depleted energy or exhaustion, feelings of mental disconnection or negativity towards one's job, and a decline in professional productivity and efficacy.
Over time, employee burnout can negatively impact both individuals and businesses. For employees, the effects can result in them constantly feeling drained, unable to cope or sleep, sad, or irritable. It can also lead to substance abuse, heart disease, high blood pressure, and other physical ailments.3 For businesses, burnout can reduce productivity, increase turnover rates, decrease employee engagement, and increase healthcare expenses.4
Key characteristics of burnout include:
Depleted energy or exhaustion
Feelings of mental disconnection or negativity towards one's job
A decline in professional productivity and efficacy
How to recognize the signs of employee burnout
Employee wellness and wellbeing are top priorities, so it’s important to know the signs of employee burnout for timely intervention. Common indicators of employee burnout include:
Reduced productivity and creativity
Lack of focus, motivation, and engagement
Inadequate problem-solving skills
Increased mistakes and absenteeism
Emotional exhaustion
Ways to prevent employee burnout
Employers play a crucial role in preventing employee burnout by taking proactive steps to create a supportive and balanced work environment. Some effective ways to combat burnout include4:
Encouraging employees to take time off
Promote a culture that values work-life balance by offering flexible time off policies and reminding employees to use their PTO.
Regularly evaluating organizational practices
Ensure company practices support open communication and offer the necessary control, flexibility, and resources for employees to manage their workload and job stress.
Providing benefits that support employee wellness
Give employees access to perks like the ClassPass Corporate Wellness Program to prioritize self-care and access gyms, fitness studios, and wellness services.
ClassPass can help alleviate employee burnout
Corporate wellness programs help employees develop healthier lifestyles and sustainable habits, ultimately managing stress levels and alleviating burnout. The ClassPass Corporate Wellness Program supports physical and mental health by providing employees access to various fitness studios, gyms, and wellness services.
of employees say that their overall well-being has improved after joining ClassPass
of employees say ClassPass has had a positive impact on their work-life balance
of employees who have ClassPass as a benefit feel that their employer cares about their health and well-being
