The Challenges of Work Burnout

07 OCTOBER 15:20H POSTED BY JAMES OGLE, MSW, LCSW

Employers often require employees to do more with less. There are also times when employers offer a raise and new job title when an employee assumes responsibilities from another position. Another scenario is when an employee chooses to accept a position that requires a high workload because they may want to earn a higher salary or because of financial responsibilities. As an individual’s career progresses, they may no longer view a high salary as their most important value or they may feel overwhelmed by the intense workload. These factors contribute to work burnout. Symptoms of work burnout include fatigue, difficulty concentrating, lower work productivity, and a loss of interest in pleasurable activities. I find when an individual seeks help for work burnout, they are beginning to question if the job is worth it.  

When working with a person experiencing work burnout, I first discuss acceptance skills. A common American belief is the “can do” attitude and that no matter how much work you give a person, they usually find a way to succeed at a high level. I help clients recognize that this belief is a fallacy and that it is common for a person’s productivity level to reduce when they feel constantly overwhelmed. Then, I discuss changing their approach to work, and accepting their productivity may suffer. We discuss their long-term goals and I assist them to assess their values. I help a person to evaluate if their values are fulfilled at their current job or if they may be happier in a new position. If the person is unable to leave their current job for financial reasons and their values are unmet, I discuss alternative ways to meet their values in another setting. When a person is struggling with burnout, it can feel like there are no solutions, but there are multiple ways to change either your situation or mindset.

JAMES OGLE, MSW, LCSW