The first signs of burnout? Encourage people to talk about it!
Most people would find it difficult to talk about work stress. Nevertheless, doing so is important, since it can reduce the risk of mental issues and even burnout. Work stress is not necessarily negative – it can help you take action and achieve good results. But if it goes on for too long and there is little room for relaxation, it becomes unhealthy. Talking to someone about it can help you learn to convert stress into positive energy.
Recognising the signs
During our studies, we are not taught how to properly deal with stress and work pressure. You will only experience what this can do to you once you start work. Because we tend to just keep going, many people ignore the signals that their body is sending. These signals include extreme fatigue, tummy troubles, lack of concentration, irritability, excessive worrying, crying easily, feeling agitated and poor sleep. We all react differently, so it is important that your employees learn to recognise the signs of excessive workload.
Pure work stress
The stress that is caused by or in the work situation is work stress. Examples include too much or too difficult work, not enough challenge, unclear tasks, a conflict with a colleague, not feeling seen or appreciated. Certain things can be stressful for some, while others experience it as a welcome new challenge, for example when work tasks change. That is why you need to make sure that the right people are in the right place in your organisation.
A combination of problems
But the first signs of a burnout are often not just about work stress – they are about a combination of various problems, including in the private sphere. As an employer, you may think that it is none of your business, but it does really affect a person's productivity. Offering your employees help is good for their well-being and good for their performance at work.
Talking helps
Don't let the problems get bigger than they need to be, as this can lead to burnout. A good conversation can prevent worse things happening. If people can talk to a coach anonymously, you make help very accessible. Employees who can open up about their problems will be quicker to get their ducks back in a row, become more productive again and are better able to cope with the challenges that come their way. Another bonus is that this also has a positive effect on the team.
A sign of strength
Making it possible to talk about issues is a sign of strength. Encourage your employees to talk about work stress or other issues they are facing. If you want to find out more about an accessible tool that you can offer your employees for when things are not going so well, please feel free to contact me, I will be happy to tell you all about it.