In the high-pressure environments of today’s workplaces, it’s not uncommon for those responsible for supporting employee well-being to find themselves on the brink of burnout. At Thrive in Mind, we’ve seen this scenario play out repeatedly: HR professionals and managers torn between their demanding roles and the need to support their struggling teams. These individuals often find themselves caught in a cycle, pulled in different directions as they try to deliver on targets while also tending to the mental health needs of their employees. Their empathy and social batteries run low, and they may feel as if they are constantly firefighting, unable to identify and attend to their own needs.
At Thrive in Mind, we want to normalise these struggles and acknowledge that feeling overwhelmed is a common response to the pressures we face. Recognising that burnout is not a personal failure but a common reaction to chronic stress is the first step in addressing it.
Burnout manifests in various ways, both physically and psychologically. Common symptoms include chronic fatigue, cynicism, and a sense of inefficacy. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), burnout is characterised by feelings of energy depletion, increased mental distance from one’s job, and reduced professional efficacy. These symptoms arise due to prolonged exposure to workplace stress without adequate recovery time.
Burnout is often fuelled by unhelpful thought patterns and rigid rules, such as “it is weak to slow down,” “I should prioritise everyone else first,” and “it has to be perfect.” These beliefs, coupled with an inflexible work culture where we keep our heads down and repeat old habits, can exacerbate the problem. The relentless focus on meeting financial targets and deadlines often means that employee well-being is side-lined. The urgent need to deliver results overshadows the long-term benefits of maintaining a healthy, resilient workforce and caring for ourselves.
To effectively support employees experiencing burnout, those responsible for their well-being must first take steps to care for themselves. This principle, often summarised as “putting your own mask on first,” is crucial. Here are some evidence-based strategies to help you navigate these challenges:
- Acknowledge and Accept Your Feelings without judgement: This doesn’t mean resigning to burnout but recognising it as a signal that you need to take action.
- Set Boundaries and Prioritise Self-Care: Establish clear boundaries to ensure you have time for rest and recovery. This might involve setting specific work hours and sticking to them, or scheduling regular breaks throughout your day.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek support from colleagues, supervisors, or mental health professionals. Sharing your struggles can be incredibly relieving and can provide new perspectives on managing stress.
- Focus on Long-Term Values: Reconnect with your core values. What brought you to your role in the first place? Focusing on these values can provide direction and motivation, helping you navigate short-term challenges with a clearer sense of purpose.
- Develop Compassionate Self-Talk: Replace self-criticism with compassionate self-talk. Remind yourself that it’s okay to struggle and that taking care of your mental health is crucial for you and those you support.
- Engage in Activities That Recharge You: Identify activities that rejuvenate you and make them a regular part of your routine. Ensure these activities are truly off the clock, meaning they are not driven by a sense of obligation or productivity. Instead, focus on activities that are present, value-based, and nurturing—things you genuinely want to do, such as hobbies, exercise, or spending quality time with loved ones.
- Implement Organisational Changes: Advocate for systemic changes that promote a healthier work environment. This could involve pushing for realistic workloads, encouraging regular breaks, and fostering a culture that values mental health.
Addressing burnout requires a dual approach: taking care of your well-being and implementing strategies that foster a supportive workplace environment.
Shifting from a reactive to a proactive approach in mental health support is essential for the long-term success and sustainability of any business. By focusing on early identification, resilience building, and fostering a culture of compassion and fairness, businesses can create a supportive and thriving workplace.
At Thrive in Mind, we understand the challenges of managing burnout while supporting others. We are here to provide evidence-based strategies and support tailored to your unique needs. By prioritising your well-being, you can better support yourself and your team and create a healthier, more resilient workplace.
Supporting Evidence and Further Reading: