In many workplaces, mental health burnout is a common concern as it causes prolonged or excessive stress for many people. Particularly, employees in highly demanding jobs tend to be the most affected by burnout due to feelings of being overworked or lacking self-worth and confidence. Ultimately, preventing burnout for employees improves their work performance, and more importantly, their mental health.
Mental Health Burnout
Consequently, employees are likely to suffer from various issues regarding their failing mental health such as strained relationships with their coworkers, occasional lapses in judgment, or decreased productivity. Furthermore, this burnout can make employees feel unmotivated, disconnected, or overwhelmed, which can, in turn, leave them unsatisfied, unappreciated, or inadequate at the work they do.
Contrary to popular belief, burnout in the workplace is more than just a temporary feeling or a negative behavioral change. In fact, those who struggle with burnout may have increased absences, decreased productivity, and low job satisfaction. What’s more? Unaddressed burnout can lead to possible legal issues, costing companies funds and resources while harming employees in the process.
Benefits of a Mental Health Day
Generally, recognizing signs of potential burnout can protect employees’ mental health at work. Therefore, if experiencing burnout, they should seek a mental health day to stop it from escalating further. First, they must stay honest with their supervisors to keep them in the loop. Secondly, employees can take these special days to recharge and relax without worrying about getting into trouble, or worse, losing their jobs.
Prioritizing rest helps prevent burnout so employees should schedule a day off each month for self-care. During this scheduled time off, they can plan ways to rejuvenate to reduce their work-related stresses so they can return to work with renewed energy. Furthermore, they should engage in physical activities to mitigate burnout symptoms, including spending time outdoors, reading, and even participating in a yoga class.
Short Breaks and Vacation Time
If employees can’t take a full day off, they shouldn’t worry as there are alternative ways to recharge. Throughout the work day, someone can take short breaks as they open up plenty of opportunities to clear one’s mind. Namely, they can take short walks, enjoy outdoor reading, or meditate to develop or strengthen a positive mindset. Remember, however, that employees who take advantage of these small breaks can see huge improvements in their stress management.
Besides taking a day off, employees should consider using their vacation time to maintain good mental health. Even just a few days off from work can significantly boost their creativity and productivity once they return to work. So, employees should use their vacation days as they’re perfect for keeping their health in check and making them feel refreshed.
Importance of Boundaries in the Workplace
https://gty.im/2172390184
Like with everything else, employees should set and maintain boundaries to protect their mental health while at work. To set boundaries, they must communicate their needs and limits with their supervisors and colleagues. Likewise, they should become comfortable with saying “no” to tasks they either don’t have time to do or capacity to complete. Not only that but, if needed, they shouldn’t bring work back home so limiting communications to work hours may help as well.
Although setting boundaries can improve mental health at work, many employees may struggle to implement it. One way someone can maintain a positive mindset is by not compromising as doing so can set themselves up to being overwhelmed or walked over by others. Not only does maintaining boundaries prevent burnout, but it can make one’s work-life balance healthier overall.
Addressing Physical Health
Outside of one’s mental health, keeping up with physical health is equally important. To be better physically, employees should consider eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. Additionally, they should combat negative thinking as it can keep them trapped in a cycle of stress. By engaging in relaxation techniques like journaling and deep breathing, these individuals can manage their negative emotions caused by burnout.
Final Thoughts
If all else fails to prevent mental health burnout, employees shouldn’t shy away from asking for help, especially when feeling overwhelmed. Therefore, they should reach out to their supervisors and coworkers as they can offer stress relief and extra support. By having these conversations at the workplace, those struggling can find safe places to be vulnerable and have connections. For additional help, one should seek therapy to build boundary-setting skills and learn coping techniques.
Disclaimer: This article is intended simply to provide information. It does not replace the medical advice of a physician or other medical professional. Please speak with your doctor or therapist if you have any questions or concerns.
