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It is reported that women and workers under 25 feel burnout most often out of the general working population and it appears that the pandemic did nothing but exacerbate this. Many workers reported that working from home accelerated an ‘always available’ type culture where online presenteeism was rife. In 2019 the WHO updated its diagnostics manual to include burnout as a mental health syndrome “resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed”. Symptoms may include exhaustion, feeling negative towards your job, lack of desire to be productive and significant energy depletion. Awareness of burnout in employers is increasing and preventative steps are becoming much more commonplace.However, in recent days Elon Musk has made headlines by announcing to staff that they will be expected to work long and difficult hours if they wish to keep their jobs. Experts suggest that this is a surefire way to reduce your workforce, through sickness absence and ultimately resignations. Too many hours, toxic cultures and lack of support systems are a few of the issues employees are reporting and are responsible for their decision to leave their roles or what forced them into long-term sickness absence. It is clear that more hours and higher targets do not produce a more efficient workforce.Thankfully more and more employers are recognising that this is an unsustainable way of working and are encouraging workers to take breaks and use their annual leave to rest and recuperate. Wages are no longer the only key factor considered when looking at new roles, the work culture, work-life balance and support available for management are all considerations that are being seen as the starting point rather than an optional benefit. This is something that is being seen throughout many different industries.

Here are a few things that we would recommend to combat burnout in the workplace:

  • Encourage staff to take regular breaks. Standing up from your desk every 30-40 minutes has been proven to keep employees productive and stimulated throughout the working day.
  • Create a work club or team around exercise or activity unrelated to your work. This can also help with team bonds and communication.
  • Encourage staff to switch off after their work hours are complete to allow for a total disconnect. This will ensure that they return refreshed the following day.

If possible within your workplace, encourage staff to take the upcoming Christmas break as a reset, and a full detox from their work stressors. This will allow them to return to work in January ready and raring to face whatever challenges 2023 may hold.

If your workplace is struggling to manage sickness absence due to burnout or your staffing levels are becoming unsustainable please contact one of our helpful HR advisors and employment solicitors at 0333 888 1360 or email [email protected]

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