Overload Burnout Is Real: How to Support Employee Well-Being

The new year is off to a great start—refreshed and ready for ... overwhelming exhaustion?

While the new year can be a time for resetting and resolutions, it can also be a period of heightened stress, anxiety, and, yes, burnout for employees.

The new year doesn’t erase work overload; employees simply pick up where they left off. From juggling year-end work deadlines to setting ambitious resolutions and managing social commitments, the pressure to start the new year on the "right foot" can take a toll on employee well-being.

Unveiling the Causes of Overload Burnout

Several factors contribute to overload burnout.

• Increased Workload:The beginning of the year often brings a surge in new deadlines and projects, leaving employees feeling overwhelmed and overworked.
• Financial Strain:The pressure of credit card bills from the holiday spending spree coming due can create financial stress, particularly for those on a tight budget.
• Personal Obligations:Navigating personal commitments like spouses, partners and children can be exhausting and emotionally draining.

Recognizing the Signs of Overload Burnout

It's important to recognize the signs of overload burnout in your employees.

They may exhibit a decline in work performance, lack of motivation, and difficulty concentrating. They may also become more irritable, short-tempered, and negative, all of which affects their interactions with colleagues and clients.

Headaches, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and changes in appetite can all be indicators of stress and burnout. Employees are also prone to taking more sick days or arriving late to work due to exhaustion or stress.

Supporting Employee Well-Being

As an employer, you can play a vital role in supporting employee well-being during the new year:

• Promote Work-Life Balance:Encourage employees to utilize their vacation time, set boundaries between their work and personal life, and prioritize self-care.
• Offer Flexible Work Arrangements:Consider offering flexible work options, such as remote work or adjusted hours, to allow employees to better manage their time and commitments.
• Encourage Open Communication:Create a safe space for employees to express their concerns and seek support. Offer resources such as employee assistance programs or mental health counseling.
• Foster a Culture of Support:Encourage teamwork, peer support, and open communication to create a positive and supportive work environment.
• Organize Stress-Reducing Activities:Offer stress-reducing activities such as yoga classes, mindfulness sessions, or team-building events to promote relaxation and camaraderie.
• Recognize and Reward Employees:Acknowledge employees' hard work and dedication with meaningful recognition and rewards.
• Promote Healthy Habits:Encourage healthy habits such as regular exercise, nutritious eating, and adequate sleep. Consider offering wellness programs or incentives to promote healthy lifestyles.

Companies seeking to build a strong and resilient workforce can benefit from partnering with a staffing and recruiting firm such as Brookwoods Group. We specialize in identifying and placing candidates who not only possess the necessary skills and experience but also demonstrate a commitment to well-being and work-life balance.

A New Year, A New Attitude

The new year is a time for new beginnings, but it's also important to remember the value of receiving support, rest, and appreciation. By prioritizing employee well-being from the first day back, you can create a more positive and productive work environment, foster a culture of care, and ensure that your employees feel valued and supported.

At Brookwoods Group, we're committed to helping you find the perfect-fit talent that will move your business forward throughout the year. We specialize in health and safety recruitment, digital marketing staffing in Houston, quality control staffing, communications staffing agency, and more. Contact us today.