Stress can make people sick—and in the long run, it can lead to burnout. This widespread condition, marked by exhaustion, loss of motivation, and a lack of energy, costs the German economy billions every year in sickness-related absences and reduced productivity. So how can companies take action to counteract burnout at work?
What Is Burnout?
Burnout is a syndrome characterized by physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. It’s not the result of a single factor but often a combination of various stressors. Common causes of burnout include:
- High time pressure
- Excessive responsibilities
- Poorly defined success criteria
- Lack of autonomy
- Difficulty disconnecting from work
- Unrealistic company performance standards
- Financial pressures
- Persistent stress and lack of rest
These stressors can come from both professional and personal environments, but it's clear that burnout at work is a growing phenomenon.
How Does Burnout Manifest Physically?
Burnout symptoms typically fall into three main categories:
- Exhaustion:
Affected individuals often feel drained, fatigued, or emotionally empty. Physical symptoms can include stomach issues, sleep disturbances, headaches, back pain, or other ailments. - Alienation:
Many people with burnout develop emotional detachment from their work—and sometimes even from colleagues or their organization. - Reduced Performance:
A decline in concentration, creativity, and motivation is common. Individuals may feel overwhelmed or incapable of handling their tasks.
It’s important to note that burnout symptoms vary widely and may not follow a set pattern.
What Should You Do at the First Signs of Burnout?
If burnout symptoms appear, it’s crucial to seek help. Start by consulting a doctor or psychologist—primary care physicians are often the first point of contact. The most significant challenge, however, is recognizing and accepting the condition in oneself.
Can I Work While Experiencing Burnout?
No. If you’re suffering from burnout, it’s essential to take time off to recover fully. Continuing to work while in this state can hinder progress and increase the likelihood of a relapse. A recovery period of 4 to 8 weeks, including ongoing therapy, is often recommended. This support should continue even after returning to work to ensure lasting well-being.
How Long Is Sick Leave for Burnout?
In Germany, employees are entitled to up to six weeks of paid sick leave per year without risk of termination. This increases to 8 weeks after 5 years of employment and 12 weeks after 15 years. If sick leave extends beyond six weeks, health insurance covers sick pay, which is typically available for at least 26 weeks.
While employees are protected financially during their sick leave, it’s important to know that employers can still terminate contracts during this period. However, wage entitlements remain until recovery or until sick pay is exhausted.
Tips for Preventing Burnout at Work
Burnout prevention starts with fostering a supportive work environment. Here are actionable strategies to protect employees:
- Encourage open communication about mental health
- Provide access to confidential support for one-on-one discussions
- Teach employees how to recognize and communicate their feelings
- Respect work-life boundaries, especially as managers
- Encourage hobbies to help employees decompress
Supporting Employees to Prevent Burnout at Work
Physical and mental health are deeply interconnected, and both are key to job satisfaction and performance. To reduce stress and prevent burnout, employers must foster trust, promote open communication, and ensure employees feel valued.
Encourage employees to reflect regularly on their feelings and articulate them. For example:
- Are they feeling frustrated, overworked, or unappreciated?
- Are their concerns being addressed?
Working with a burnout counselor can help employees identify stress triggers, develop coping strategies, and address dissatisfaction before it escalates into burnout.
Communication Matters
A positive work environment thrives on constructive communication. Criticism should focus on improvement, such as:
- Replace “This isn’t good enough” with “Let’s explore how we can refine this for a better outcome.”
Similarly, don’t underestimate the power of positive feedback. Recognizing employees’ achievements fosters job satisfaction and a sense of purpose. Help employees connect their roles to their personal and professional goals by asking:
- Why did I start this job?
- What are my short- and long-term goals?
- How does my role contribute to these plans?
Open dialogue strengthens the bond between employees and the organization.
Managers as Role Models
Managers set the tone for workplace culture. When they model healthy work habits and respect boundaries, employees are more likely to follow suit. Avoid practices like sending emails late at night, as this can blur the line between work and personal life.
Encourage a balance between productivity and relaxation. Simple steps, like taking lunch away from the desk or stepping outside for a break, can help clear the mind and recharge.
Dealing With Burnout in the Team
Burnout isn’t just an individual issue—it can ripple through the entire team. If a team member shows signs of burnout, consider these steps:
- Adjust workloads, postpone deadlines, or redistribute tasks.
- Organize group discussions to identify stressors and solutions.
- Encourage employees to reflect on what they enjoy about their work.
Encourage hobbies and personal time to help employees recharge outside of work. Open communication helps employees feel supported and reduces feelings of isolation.
Leveraging Mental Health Resources
Programs like nilo provide access to psychologists, coaches, and self-guided tools. These services allow employees to assess their mental health, participate in workshops, and address stressors in a safe space. Managers can also benefit from coaching to recognize early signs of burnout and learn how to support their teams effectively.
Building a Resilient Workplace
The workplace should be a space where employees feel valued and supported. Simple gestures—like expressing gratitude, incorporating mindfulness exercises, or organizing team-building activities—can go a long way in preventing burnout.
Managers play a key role in creating a culture of openness, where criticisms, suggestions, and successes can be shared freely. Regular team check-ins focused on well-being, rather than performance, can strengthen team bonds and foster a sense of collective resilience.
Together, teams can combat burnout and create a healthier, more productive workplace.
