Why burnout is on the rise and how to prevent it in your workplace
In today’s fast-paced workplaces, burnout has become an all-too-common affliction, with an alarming rise in its prevalence.
In today’s fast-paced workplaces, burnout has become an all-too-common affliction, with an alarming rise in its prevalence. According to recent data from Sonder’s Burnout Report, nearly half of Australian and New Zealand workers are experiencing feelings of burnout or exhaustion. This revelation unveils a sobering reality: even with working from home and flexibility, some workplaces are failing to grapple with the chronic stress and mental fatigue of employees.
Burnout, as described by the World Health Organization, is not merely stress; it’s a syndrome stemming from prolonged exposure to unmanaged workplace stress. It manifests as a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion, often leading to decreased productivity and a growing sense of detachment from one’s job. Alarmingly, only a fraction of those affected by burnout actually take time off to address their mental health concerns, despite data suggesting that breaks help manage chronic stress and burnout.
Personally, I’m making efforts to change how I live because of this issue, so I can be on top of my game. It’s become clear that after COVID we didn’t collectively get to reset as a workforce. I often remind myself that I am running a marathon, not a sprint. To be able to support others and work efficiently, I need to role model the right behaviours, and create capacity for myself and the team to learn new skills that manage stress and burnout. Also, it’s key to make it safe for teams to talk about energy, mental health and what might be impacting them.
The root causes of burnout are multifaceted, but one prevalent factor is the strain imposed by the ever-rising cost of living. In the Sonder survey, a significant portion of respondents cited financial worries as a recurring source of stress. In an era where meeting basic living expenses feels like an uphill battle for many, the relentless pressure to make ends meet can take a heavy toll on mental health.
Moreover, burnout isn’t confined to specific industries or job roles; it permeates across diverse sectors. While knowledge-based professions are commonly associated with burnout, due to long hours and high-pressure deadlines, even roles that involve direct customer or patient interaction are not immune. Workers in the retail trade are the most likely to report feelings of stress when reaching out to Sonder for support. They account for almost half (49%) of the tens of thousands of Sonder member cases recorded between January 2022 and February 2024. This underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing burnout that transcends industry boundaries.
The consequences of burnout extend beyond the workplace, infiltrating every aspect of an individual’s life. For example, insomnia and loneliness can emerge as common companions of burnout. The Sonder data paints a stark picture, with a significant portion of respondents reporting difficulties in sleeping and feelings of isolation. These symptoms not only impair personal wellbeing but also hinder job performance, perpetuating a vicious cycle of burnout.
As we confront this pressing issue, it’s important for employers to take proactive steps to safeguard the mental health of their workforce. Encouraging employees to prioritise self-care and take regular breaks is paramount. The Sonder data underscores the importance of holidays in mitigating stress levels, with a noticeable decline in stress-related cases during vacation periods. By fostering a culture that values work-life balance and prioritises employee wellness, organisations can cultivate a more resilient and engaged workforce.
Another micro-step is to have wellbeing plans for your team. We talk about growth and development plans, but why not link them and put in place a growth and wellbeing plan? It’s a simple way to better understand where your people are at in terms of their wellbeing needs.
Additionally, providing access to resources and support services is crucial in addressing burnout effectively. Employee wellbeing solutions, mental health resources, and stress management workshops can empower individuals to become more conscious about their behaviours and cope with the demands of modern work life more effectively. Fostering open communication channels where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns without fear of stigma is essential in creating a supportive work environment.
The surge in burnout cases among Australian and New Zealand workers is a wake-up call for employers and policymakers alike. Addressing the root causes of burnout, such as financial stress and overwork, requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders. By prioritising employee wellbeing and implementing proactive measures to prevent burnout, we can create healthier, more sustainable workplaces where individuals thrive.
Raechel Gavin is the chief people officer at Sonder.
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