Employee burnout has become a pressing issue in today's workplaces. Recent findings from the Deliotte Well-being at work survey unveiled alarming results that deserve our attention. An astonishing 89% of employees admit to experiencing burnout, while an equally shocking 70% consider leaving their jobs due to its debilitating effects. What’s even more surprising, three out of four executives mistakenly believe that their workforce's well-being is on the upswing. This disconnect highlights the urgency of how to spot and put in preventative measures to adress employee burnout once and for all.
We've all felt stretched thin or stressed out at work at one point or another, but recognizing that in someone else can be tricky. While it's crucial for HR and management to be on the lookout for burnout, the responsibility doesn't stop there. The wide spread company culture needs to be set up in a way that minimizes stress and promotes well-being. Having programs in place to support employees (i.e. corporate wellness programs) has been an effective tool of increasing employee engagement and reducing turnover, used by some of the biggest companies like Google, Unliver, Klick Health and many more.
So, whether you're an HR manager, an employer, or a team member who genuinely cares, there are some specific signs to look out for. According to the comprehensive Deloitte survey, those experiencing burnout commonly reported feelings like extreme tiredness (52%), chronic stress (49%), and being overwhelmed (43%). Also high on the list were irritability (34%), loneliness (33%), depression (32%), and anger (32%). Being aware of these indicators can be your first step in pinpointing burnout and taking action to address it within your team.
Burnout takes a profound emotional toll on employees. Surveys reveal that many employees struggle to take time off or disconnect from work, with only around half reporting that they consistently use all of their vacation time, exercise daily, take micro breaks during the workday, get sufficient sleep, or have enough time for friends and family. In that event, it's not surprising that a significant portion of employees feel that their job has a negative impact on their physical, mental, and social well-being.
This emotional struggle can lead to decreased job satisfaction, strained relationships, and even mental health challenges. Recognizing and empathizing with the emotional aspects of burnout is essential for a supportive work environment.
Taking a proactive approach to employee well-being isn't just a smart move for companies; it's a way to create a workplace where everyone can truly thrive and you can reduce employee turnover.
One game-changing way companies are tackling burnout is through corporate wellness programs. These aren’t just nice-to-haves. They're essentials that can drastically help improve an employee's well-being when they’re part of a broader strategy.
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Wondering what these programs might look like in action? Here's a snapshot:
Wellness Challenges: Activities that not only promote health but also enhance team engagement.
Educational Webinars and Lunch & Learns: Focused sessions to educate the workforce on well-being, stress management, and more.
Customized Programs: Tailored solutions with ongoing touchpoints to maintain and improve well-being.
Stress Management Courses: Designed to help employees effectively manage workplace stressors.
Resource Database: A collection of healthful recipes, exercise tips, and other resources.
Real-World Success Stories
Don't just take my word for it; the proof is in the pudding. Companies like Google and Unilever have seen remarkable improvements by implementing comprehensive corporate wellness programs. These case stories show that focusing on employee well-being is a game-changing strategy.
Still wondering why focusing on recognizing & preventing employee burnout is so crucial? Think of it this way: a company that genuinely invests in its employees' well-being is committed to their long-term success, and in turn employees will be happier, more engaged and more likely to return that gestures of commitment. It's not just about avoiding burnout—it's about fostering an environment where everyone can truly thrive.
If you'd like to learn more about how HEAL can build a resilient workforce in your organization, click here to get in touch.
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