Monitoring stress is an important part of work life
Today, more than 3.5 billion working adults each spend roughly 90,000 hours – or about 45 years – of their lives at work. Now, focus is shifting to the rising tide of workplace burnout in South Africa.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) estimates that as many as one in three employees in the country are affected by burnout, a condition linked to ongoing, unmanaged stress.
Burnout is more than just feeling overworked – it’s a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion brought on by prolonged stress. It can stem from workplace pressure or personal stress, such as a major illness or family problems. Left unchecked, burnout can lead to a host of health issues, including disrupted sleep patterns, cognitive impairments and a higher risk of depression.
Burnout is the result of stress that builds up over time, often ignored until it becomes unmanageable. It’s often disguised as productivity – people push harder, skip breaks, sacrifice sleep – all in the name of performance, until their health begins to unravel.
While burnout can affect workers across the board, those in high-stress environments, such as healthcare and emergency services, are particularly vulnerable. These professions demand long hours, carry heavy emotional loads and often allow little time for recovery.
Earlier this year, a global survey involving over 30,000 employees conducted by the McKinsey Health Institute, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum, revealed that women, members of the LGBTQI+ community, younger people, neurodivergent people and those facing financial challenges reported significantly worse health outcomes at work. These risks are magnified by tough economic conditions, including high unemployment, loadshedding and poor service delivery.
Many people in their twenties and thirties, in particular, entered adulthood during a time of global uncertainty. They’re juggling financial strain, disrupted education or career starts and social isolation due to the difficulty forming social connections in today’s hyper-digital world.
According to a recent report by the American Psychological Association, younger adults are significantly more likely than older generations to feel overwhelmed, isolated and unable to function effectively due to stress. Financial concerns are a major contributor, with nearly 70% of 18-44-year-olds saying they feel consumed by money worries.
Take responsibility
While technology has revolutionised the workplace, it has also blurred the boundaries between work and personal life. The constant connectivity facilitated by smartphones and laptops means many employees find it challenging to disconnect, leading to prolonged exposure to work-related stressors.
Actions can be taken to help avoid burnout. Establish clear work-life boundaries. Avoid checking work emails or messages outside of designated work hours. Allocate specific times during the day to unplug from digital devices. Engage in activities that don’t involve screens, such as reading or outdoor walks.
Open up to friends, family or professionals about feelings of stress or burnout. Sharing experiences can provide relief and guidance. Maintain a balanced diet, regular exercise routine and adequate sleep. These foundational health practices can bolster resilience against stress. And incorporate mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, to manage stress levels effectively.
Employers also play a crucial role in mitigating burnout. By fostering a supportive work environment, promoting regular breaks and recognising employee achievements, organisations can help reduce the risk of burnout among their staff.
Text | Nicole Jennings
Photography | Stokkete
Nicole Jennings is spokesperson for Pharma Dynamics. For more information, go to pharmadynamics.co.za.
