Employee Burnout

Employee burnout is a prevalent issue in workplaces across the UK, impacting both individuals and organisations. Recognising the signs of burnout and taking proactive steps to support employees facing this challenge is crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive workforce.

In this blog, we will delve into what burnout is, its common signs, potential causes, and, most importantly, how employers can effectively support their employees through this difficult experience.

What is Burnout?

Burnout is more than just feeling stressed or tired from work. It is a state of physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged exposure to stressors and overwhelming demands. This can manifest in various ways, impacting an employee’s overall well-being and performance.

Identifying Signs of Burnout:

1. Emotional or Physical Exhaustion: Burnout often presents as chronic fatigue, physical symptoms like chest pains, and emotional struggles such as anxiety and depression. Employees may lose their appetite and struggle to concentrate on their tasks.
2. Cynicism and Detachment: Employees experiencing burnout may start distancing themselves from their work and colleagues. Increased absences, lateness, and a pessimistic outlook on work and life are common signs.
3. Ineffectiveness or Lack of Accomplishment: Apathy towards work, feelings of constant failure, and frustration due to perceived underappreciation can lead to reduced productivity and a sense of hopelessness.

Causes of Employee Burnout:

Several factors contribute to burnout among employees, and employers must address these root causes:

1. Excessive Workload: Overwhelming employees with an excessive workload and unrealistic expectations can lead to chronic stress and burnout.
2. Unclear Expectations: Lack of clarity regarding job responsibilities and expectations can leave employees feeling lost and overwhelmed.
3. Lack of Managerial Support: Employees need a supportive work environment, where they can turn to their managers for guidance and assistance during challenging times.
4. Lack of Control: A lack of autonomy over their work, including when and how they complete tasks, can exacerbate feelings of burnout.

Supporting Employees Facing Burnout:

As an employer, it is essential to address burnout proactively and provide support to your employees:

1. Collaborate on a Recovery Plan: Engage in open conversations with the affected employee and create a joint plan to address burnout. Encourage them to take ownership of their recovery process.
2. Re-evaluate Job Expectations: Work with the employee to set realistic job expectations that can help them regain their confidence and manage stress.
3. Foster a Supportive Environment: Break the stigma around burnout by fostering a culture where employees feel comfortable seeking help and support. Establish a buddy system or provide access to confidential support resources.
4. Seek Professional Guidance: Every individual’s burnout experience is unique, and seeking professional guidance can provide valuable insights into effectively managing and supporting affected employees. Sapern HR Ltd has a team of CIPD qualified HR professionals who can assist you in navigating through these challenges.

Recognising and addressing employee burnout is crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive workforce. By fostering a supportive work environment and collaborating with employees to create effective recovery plans, employers can help individuals overcome burnout and cultivate a resilient and motivated team.

If you require guidance or support in managing burnout in your workplace, don’t hesitate to reach out to Sapern HR Ltd at 07526 029975 or info@sapernhr.co.uk. Together, we can build a thriving work environment where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered.