As work pressures rise and boundaries blur, burnout is becoming an all-too-common experience for employees across various industries.
But what exactly is burnout and what causes it? According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), burnout is a syndrome resulting from workplace stress that has not been properly managed. It is characterised by three dimensions:
- Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion
- Increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism related to one’s job
- Reduced professional efficacy
A survey conducted by Mental Health UK reported that one in five working adults in the UK needed to take time off in the past year due to poor mental health caused by stress. Additionally, more than one-third of working adults admitted they do not feel comfortable telling their line managers when they are experiencing high stress levels.
Burnout affects both mental health and job performance, creating a cycle of low productivity and dissatisfaction. It can occur in any industry, but the causes are often rooted in work-related factors such as heavy workloads, lack of control and insufficient support.
Understanding the causes of burnout is the first step to addressing and preventing it. In this article, we’ll talk you through the top five causes of stress and workplace burnout and how to take action to ensure a healthier and more sustainable work environment for everyone.
1. Heavy Workload
One of the leading causes of workplace burnout is an unmanageable workload. When employees are constantly juggling excessive workloads and tight deadlines, they can easily become overwhelmed. This type of ongoing pressure can lead to chronic stress and exhaustion, eventually resulting in burnout.
Heavy workloads can cause both mental and physical exhaustion. Employees may feel as though they are constantly behind on work, which can diminish job satisfaction and productivity. Over time, this stress accumulates and affects not only performance but also personal well-being.
To prevent burnout caused by overworking, employers should assess workloads regularly and set realistic expectations for employees. Encouraging time management, properly delegating tasks and enforcing regular breaks can alleviate pressure. Open communication is key – employees should feel comfortable discussing challenges with their managers, who can make adjustments where needed.
2. Lack of Control
Burnout can also occur when employees feel they have little control over tasks, decision-making or schedules. Micromanagement, strict work structures and a lack of autonomy can all contribute to a sense of powerlessness among employees.
A lack of control decreases motivation and increases stress levels. Employees who lack autonomy in their jobs can feel trapped, which can affect their well-being and productivity.
Employers can mitigate this issue by giving employees greater control over their work. Offering flexible working arrangements and involving employees in decision-making can restore a sense of control. Giving staff the freedom to manage their own workload boosts both engagement and job satisfaction.
3. Insufficient Support
Insufficient support from managers or colleagues can leave employees feeling isolated and overwhelmed, with no one to turn to. This contributes to increased stress levels and trouble dealing with workload, leading to quicker burnout.
Creating a supportive work environment is essential. Regular check-ins and mentorship programmes can help employees feel listened to, giving them a space to connect and express their concerns. Encouraging open communication and offering timely assistance when needed can prevent burnout and create a more positive and collaborative workplace.
4. Poor Work Relationships
Another cause of workplace burnout is negative work relationships. Whether due to conflicts, bullying or poor communication, these kinds of relationships can create a toxic work environment for employees, leading to increased stress and frustration and making them feel undervalued and disconnected. Over time, these relationships can accelerate burnout.
Fostering a positive work culture from the get-go can prevent burnout and stress from becoming a possibility. Employers should encourage teamwork, open communication and conflict resolution to create a supportive environment for everyone.
5. Lack of Role Clarity
Confusion about roles and responsibilities can leave employees feeling confused about their job expectations or how their performance is measured. As a result, they may begin to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about their work.
Employees with undefined roles often struggle with miscommunication and may feel undervalued, which in turn heightens stress, making burnout a more likely eventuality.
Ensuring employees have well-defined roles, clear objectives and regular feedback helps reduce confusion and boost confidence.
Support from The H&S Department
Workplace burnout is a growing concern, but understanding its root causes, such as excessive workloads and poor communication, can help employers take proactive steps to prevent it. Supporting employees is key to reducing stress, improving well-being and increasing productivity as a whole.
Employers have a duty of care when it comes to protecting employees. By investing in mental health support, such as mental health first aid training or stress risk assessments, you can foster a healthier and more positive work environment and prevent employees from ever reaching the stage of burnout. Get in touch with The H&S Department for more information on how you can support the wellbeing of your employees.