Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged exposure to work-related stressors, such as excessive workload, lack of control or autonomy, conflicting demands, or a toxic work environment. Burnout can manifest as feelings of fatigue, cynicism, detachment, and reduced effectiveness or productivity, impacting both individual well-being and organizational performance.
Burnout is prevalent across various professions and industries, particularly in high-pressure or demanding work environments where employees face chronic stressors or unrealistic expectations. Left unaddressed, burnout can lead to serious consequences, including decreased job satisfaction, increased absenteeism or turnover, compromised physical and mental health, and diminished quality of work or service delivery.
Preventing and addressing burnout requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both individual and organizational factors contributing to stress and exhaustion. Employers can promote work-life balance, establish clear expectations and boundaries, provide resources and support for stress management and resilience-building, and foster a positive and supportive work culture that values employee well-being.
You may also be interested in learning about these terms:
Burnout
Voluntary Turnover
Turnover Rate
