Burnout syndrome: how companies can prevent and address the problem

The World Health Organization recognizes burnout as an “occupational phenomenon”, occupational exhaustion can affect mental and physical health

Overwork, toxic corporate environment, constant pressure, chronic stress, lack of autonomy or flexibility. These are the main risk factors in the workplace for Burnout Syndrome, or professional exhaustion syndrome, which affects approximately 64.3 million Brazilians, according to a survey conducted by the International Stress Management Association (Isma). Mental health problems represent the third cause of absence from work and the data shows growing trends. Burnout is a syndrome that begins silently, and many professionals suffer from this exhaustion without being aware of it. The term burnout, which in free translation from English means “complete exhaustion”, was introduced by psychoanalyst Herbert J. Freudenberger, who created a 12-stage model to visualize the development of this syndrome with typical behaviors for each stage:

1. Excessive ambition and need for constant approval;
2. Work harder and accumulate responsibilities;
3. Neglecting personal and social needs;
4. Repress conflicts, escape problems and symptoms;
5. Review of values;
6. Denial of the problem, impatience and irritability with others;
7. Staying away, reducing social contacts;
8. Behavior changes;
9. Depersonalization, loss of contact with oneself, use of autopilot;
10. Internal emptiness, compulsive behaviors;
11. Symptoms of depression;
12. Burnt.

“Being the product of an accumulation of stress, this professional burnout does not happen overnight. It is a complex and profound phenomenon that affects professionals of all ages, sectors and hierarchical levels”, explains Ines Hungerbühler, psychologist, PhD and clinical team leader at Wellz, Gympass’ mental health solution.

How companies can address burnout

In recent years, also due to a more specific definition by the WHO, discussions on burnout have increased and it has become clear that companies can play a crucial role in promoting the mental health of their employees and reducing the stigma around burnout. ‘subject. and consequently in the effective treatment of issues such as professional burnout and harm reduction. To prevent burnout syndrome, the key point is to build a healthy working environment. There are several strategies for creating a culture of care where employees can work productively and maintain their well-being. Take a look at some practical and easy-to-implement actions that Ines Hungerbühler, psychologist, PhD and leader of the Wellz by Gympass clinical team, presents:

Dealing with the culture of productivity

Environments where productivity comes before everything else (even the employee’s health) can facilitate the development of burnout. We are all human and having limits is not only normal, but it is healthy, even for the company.

Make routines more flexible

Chronic stress is often caused by a mismatch between job demands and the employee’s abilities and resources. Understanding routines and goals that suit not only the company, but also the employee, increases productivity and helps create a healthier environment.

Leadership education and training

Leadership plays a vital role in creating a culture of care and, consequently, a healthy work environment. In order for a leader to create psychologically safe spaces and welcome team members, it is necessary to adequately prepare the leadership.

Have tools for recurring monitoring of the emotional state of collaborators

Just like burnout, other mental health issues like depression or anxiety don’t appear overnight. Identifying early signs and symptoms allows us to intervene before complete development and consequently reduce consequences such as absences due to illness and high medical costs, as well as a compromised quality of life, right from the start.

Promote ongoing assistance programs

To create a culture that prioritizes well-being, you need to do more than offer specific crisis actions or interventions. Offering benefits and tools that allow employees to take care of their mental health, better manage stress levels, and increase self-knowledge is essential to preventing burnout and other mental health issues. “As employers, we have a responsibility to address the wellness crisis by supporting our employees so they can incorporate healthy habits into their routines, whether it’s physical activity, mental health care, healthy eating, financial education or hundreds of others activities. When teams are healthy, happy and engaged, there is a positive impact on the business”, underlines Priscila Siqueira, leader of Gympass Brasil.

About Gympass

Gympass is the world’s most loved corporate wellness platform, offering the best network of gyms, studios, classes, personal trainers and wellness apps all in one place. More than 15,000 companies use Gympass to help their employees move, eat, sleep and feel better by offering access to a network of fitness and wellness partners, with plans costing employees up to 50% less than subscriptions traditional. With Gympass, HR leaders can more than double the number of employees engaged in wellness programs. This broad participation results in a workforce with a 40% lower likelihood of turnover and allows companies to save up to 35% on healthcare costs. Investing in employee well-being means investing in company performance. Find out more at gympass.com

About Wellz

Discover Wellz, the mental health solution that supports HR with measurable care that integrates body and mind. The solution offers: expertise from the world’s largest corporate wellness platform, proven clinical results, training for leaders, structured conversation circles, therapy sessions with expert therapists, an application that personalizes daily care, and more. Find out more at https://saudeemocional.wellzcare.com/

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.