Combatting job burnout

One of the major issues raised by the experts at the recently convened Gulf Cooperation Council Health Council was the pressing issue of job burnout. The issue demands attention due to its profound psychological and physical repercussions on employees.

Job burnout manifests itself in various ways, including forgetfulness and even oesophagal reflux, a physical symptom associated with its chronic presence. To avoid the perilous path of job burnout, characterised by exhaustion, perpetual fatigue, and intense psychological strain stemming from relentless work pressure, avoiding overburdening oneself and working excessive hours is essential. Succumbing to this syndrome can lead individuals to withdraw from their social circles, leaving them with an overwhelming sense of emptiness. This internal void inevitably seeps into their behaviour and actions, resulting in a loss of joy in all aspects of life.

A recent awareness campaign initiated by the Gulf Health Council, titled ‘Draw a line between you and job burnout,’ shed light on a concerning statistic: One in three employees exhibits signs of job burnout. Forgetfulness, a common marker of this condition, often goes unnoticed until it becomes a significant issue.

In 1974, Herbert Freudenberger, a physician and psychotherapist, conducted pioneering research on burnout, defining it as the steep cost of high achievement—a depletion of the motivation that propels us forward in life and work. Burnout typically arises when one's efforts fail to yield the desired results.

Burnout is a response to chronic, unmanaged workplace stress. Recognizing its prevalence and profound impact on productivity and well-being, the World Health Organisation officially classified burnout as an "occupational phenomenon" in the eleventh edition of the International Classification of Diseases. It occurs when chronic workplace stress is not effectively addressed.

Beyond workplace stress, the rigours of daily life can hasten burnout. Personality traits and thought patterns, such as an unrelenting pursuit of perfection or a pessimistic outlook, can also contribute to its development. In severe cases, burnout may lead to chronic physical and mental health disorders.

The intricate connection between mind and body means stress can trigger various digestive problems. Psychological stress can impede proper digestion, leading to the retention of stomach acid and subsequent heartburn.

Effective communication and support from managers act as a protective shield against psychological stress. Employees who feel well-supported by their managers are 70 per cent less likely to experience burnout.

For some, taking time off from work is the initial response to combat job burnout—a chance to temporarily detach from the work environment. This doesn't necessitate an extended vacation, as studies have demonstrated that even short breaks can reduce stress, lower the risk of heart disease, improve overall outlook, and boost motivation upon return to work. During such breaks, reflecting on the aspects of your job for which you are grateful can have tangible benefits. Cultivating gratitude, even during short respites, can shift your thinking from negative to positive, enhancing your perspective on work and life.

Minimising contact with negative colleagues is also crucial, as their negative energy can affect your mood adversely.

Job burnout isn't confined to the workplace; it can infiltrate all aspects of life if boundaries, organisation, and balance aren't established. In a rapidly changing world, succumbing to internal combustion without even realizing it is easy. Therefore, setting clear boundaries for all life's demands is essential.