5 Signs of Burnout and How to Deal with Them?

By OrangeHRM | Published on Jul 23, 2019 | minute read

In today's fast-paced work environment, employee burnout has become a pressing concern for both employers and employees. Burnout can affect productivity, engagement, and overall well-being. But what are the telltale signs?

Exhaustion That Goes Beyond Tiredness

When employees are constantly feeling drained, both physically and mentally, it could be a red flag for burnout. They may experience persistent fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and increased irritability. If you notice someone yawning during meetings more than usual or struggling to meet deadlines, they might be on the edge of burnout.

How to Deal with Tiredness?

Encourage your team to prioritize self-care. Promote a healthy work-life balance by encouraging breaks, setting reasonable work hours, and discouraging excessive overtime. Encourage employees to engage in activities that help them recharge, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones.

Decreased Job Satisfaction and Engagement

When employees who were once enthusiastic and motivated start showing signs of disengagement, it's a clear sign of burnout. They may become cynical, lose interest in their work, and withdraw from team activities or social interactions. This lack of enthusiasm not only affects their individual performance but also their overall team morale.

How to Deal with Decreased Job Satisfaction and Engagement?

Foster a positive work environment by recognizing and appreciating your employees' efforts. Celebrate achievements, provide constructive feedback, and create opportunities for growth and development. Encourage open communication and regular check-ins to understand their concerns and address any issues promptly.

Increased Absenteeism and Declining Performance

If you notice a sudden increase in absenteeism or a decline in an employee's performance, it could indicate burnout. Burnout affects one's ability to concentrate, make decisions, and meet deadlines, leading to a drop in productivity. Moreover, frequent sick leaves or unexplained absences might be an employee's way of coping with excessive stress.

How to Deal with Absenteeism and Decreased Performance?

Schedule one-on-one meetings with the affected employees to discuss their concerns. Identify any underlying issues and provide support or resources to help them manage their workload effectively. Consider offering flexible work arrangements or time off to allow them to recharge and recover.

Emotional Distress and Increased Conflict

Burnout can take a toll on an employee's emotional well-being, leading to mood swings, increased sensitivity, and conflicts with colleagues. They may feel overwhelmed by their workload and become easily frustrated or irritated, even in situations that wouldn't typically bother them.

How to Deal with Emotional Distress and Conflict? 

Encourage a supportive and empathetic work culture. Provide stress management resources, such as counseling services or wellness programs, to help employees cope with emotional distress. Promote teamwork and collaboration to foster positive relationships among team members.

Physical Symptoms and Health Issues

Employee burnout can manifest itself in physical symptoms like headaches, insomnia, gastrointestinal problems, and weakened immunity. Chronic stress affects both the mind and body, and prolonged exposure can lead to severe health issues if left unaddressed.

How to Deal with Physical Symptoms?

Educate employees about the importance of self-care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Offer wellness initiatives such as yoga or meditation classes, ergonomic workstations, and health check-ups. Encourage employees to take regular breaks, practice stress-relieving techniques, and prioritize their well-being.

Why OrangeHRM?

Identifying and managing employee burnout can be challenging, but with OrangeHRM's performance management module, HR professionals can gain valuable insights into employee performance. The module enables HR teams to track key performance indicators, identify low-performing employees, and take proactive measures to address burnout risks. By leveraging OrangeHRM, HR professionals can create a supportive work environment and foster a culture that values employee well-being. See OrangeHRM in action! Book your FREE demo today.