Burnout is becoming a big problem for many workers. With so much time spent at work, stress builds up. In South Africa, about one in three workers is affected by burnout, especially because their stress isn’t properly managed. As Corporate Wellness Week runs from 1 to 5 July, it’s a good time to talk about this growing issue.
Burnout is more than tiredness. It happens when stress builds up. It can come from work or personal problems. If ignored, it can cause poor sleep, trouble focusing, and depression.
Nicole Jennings from Pharma Dynamics says burnout sneaks up slowly and gets worse when we ignore stress. “It’s often disguised as productivity – people push harder, skip breaks, sacrifice sleep – all in the name of performance, until their health eventually begins to unravel.”
Who’s Most at Risk of Burnout?
Burnout can happen to anyone, but it’s especially common in tough jobs like healthcare and emergency services. These jobs have long hours, a lot of emotional stress, and not much time to rest.
Earlier this year, a big global survey of over 30,000 workers found that some groups, like women, LGBTQI+ people, younger workers, neurodivergent individuals, and those struggling financially, are having a much harder time with their health at work.
In South Africa, tough times like high unemployment, loadshedding, and unreliable services make stress worse and can quickly lead to burnout.
“Many in their 20s and 30s, in particular, entered adulthood during a time of global uncertainty,” Jennings said. “They’re juggling financial strain, disrupted education or career starts, and social isolation due to the difficulty forming social connections in today’s hyper-digital world – aHelenHelenll adding to the mental load.”
A recent report from the American Psychological Association shows that younger adults feel more overwhelmed, isolated, and stressed than older generations. Money worries are a big part of this, with nearly 70% of people aged 18 to 44 saying they feel consumed by financial stress.
Finding solutions
Technology has changed how we work, but it also makes it hard to separate work from personal life. With smartphones and laptops always nearby, many people struggle to switch off. This constant connection keeps work stress going and plays a big part in burnout.
Jennings states that dealing with burnout means taking a full, all-around approach:
- Set boundaries: Keep work and personal time separate. Try not to check emails or messages after work hours.
- Take a digital break: Choose times each day to step away from screens. Do things like read a book or enjoy the outdoors instead.
- Ask for help: Talk to friends, family, or a professional when stress or burnout feels too much. Sharing can help you feel better and find solutions.
- Stay healthy: Eat well, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. These habits help you handle stress better.
- Relax and be mindful: Try meditation or deep breathing to calm your mind and reduce stress.
Employers play an important part in preventing burnout. By creating supportive workplaces, encouraging regular breaks, and celebrating employees’ efforts, companies can help their teams feel less stressed and more motivated.
The business case
McKinsey’s research shows that when companies take care of their employees’ health, they get great results. People work better, take fewer sick days, healthcare costs go down, and employees feel more connected and stay longer. Taking care of workers is good for both them and the business.
“Burnout may be invisible at first, but its impact is deeply felt – in our homes, relationships and workplaces,” says Jennings. “We need to shift the narrative from glorifying overwork to valuing mental resilience. Corporate Wellness Week isn’t just another awareness day – it’s a chance for each of us, whether employer or employee, to press pause, take stock and work towards a healthier work-life balance. Let this be the moment we commit to lasting change, not just for ourselves, but for the generations coming after us.”
