2023-05-15 08:11:09
Burnout in the workplace: what are the consequences and how to deal with it?
Burnout, also called chronic work-related stress, is a phenomenon that affects more and more employees in France. The burnout risk rate has been on the rise for several years, reaching 28%, or 1 in 4 employees (OpinionWay survey). Indeed, faced with excessive workloads and the constant pressure of the professional environment, many employees end up cracking up. What causes, manifestations and consequences are attached to this problem in companies?
Burnout, a phenomenon often neglected by companies
Burnout is a serious problem that can affect the mental health and productivity of employees. Unfortunately, many companies neglect this problem and do not take the necessary measures to avoid this situation. And for good reason, nearly 50% of employees believe that their companies neglect psychological distress. The phenomenon is seen more as an individual concern that does not impact the organization. Worse, workers suffering from burnout often perceive themselves as weak or unable to cope with work pressure.
However, this state of stress causes severe damage to workers, also leading to structural problems in the company. The very profitability of the organization may be affected. Leaders must therefore recognize the reality of burnout and put in place measures to prevent this situation.
Signs and symptoms indicating burnout
The symptoms of burnout are difficult to detect because they vary from person to person. However, physical signs such as chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, headaches, muscle aches, etc. can often be observed. Emotional effects can include increased irritability, depression, loss of interest in work, disengagement, etc.
As far as cognitive signs are concerned, there is a loss of memory, difficulty concentrating, a drop in efficiency at work, etc. It is important to take the occurrence of any of the symptoms mentioned seriously and seek help.
The causes of burnout in French companies
Most of the time, burnout is caused by overwork. The employee under constant pressure to achieve high goals ends up feeling overwhelmed. He feels he does not have the time required to do the job effectively. Some employees perceive a lack of support from the manager, and the feeling of being on their own sets in.
Specifically, the causes of the problem may vary, but they are always structured around stress in the work environment. It should be noted that the trigger for burnout can come from outside the company. It is often the combination of a personal life that also generates stress with a more difficult professional life that is decisive in triggering the pathology.
A colleague in a situation of burnout: what to do?
If you notice that one of your colleagues is in a situation of burnout, you should offer them help. You can offer them a listening ear, recommend that they speak to a mental health professional, or refer them to the resources available within the company. You must also report the situation to your employer so that he can take measures to relieve your colleague in difficulty. It will be necessary to show delicacy and discretion in this regard.
What are your rights in a burnout situation?
In the event of burnout, you can assert certain rights. In particular, you can ask for an adaptation of your workstation, a reduction in your working hours, or even sick leave. You need to take care of your mental health and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed.
The effects of burnout on the company
Burnout negatively impacts companies on many levels. First, it causes an increase in absenteeism. Employees in a situation of burnout find it difficult to concentrate and provide quality work. They therefore prefer to stay at home to recharge their batteries. This undermines team dynamics and decreases productivity.
In addition, burnout entails significant financial costs. Companies often have to recruit new employees to replace those who have left because of the problem. The training of these new heads is also a cost item.
Finally, the phenomenon can have legal implications for the company. Precisely, if it does not take the necessary measures to help employees in difficulty, it risks prosecution. It therefore seems wise to consider the danger of burnout as very serious in order to adopt a preventive approach.
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