Workplace stress is a widespread and growing problem. Its magnitude is captured by recent studies:
- 45-66% of EU citizens feel on the verge of burnout.
- Burnout is widespread in 30% of UK organizations.
- Employee burnout is the cause behind a loss of turnover and productivity that globally amounts to 322bn USD
The negative effects of stress
Stress and burnout cause personal suffering for those affected. And the spillover effects are enormous, as the impact is felt by families, workplaces and society.
For businesses and organizations, stress and burnout have negative effects on employee motivation, productivity and innovation. Business results are hampered and staff recruitment and retention become more difficult.
A culture of well-being is possible
Despite the size of the problem and the potential of stress prevention, the drivers behind burnout are often misunderstood or ignored. Solutions are often after-the-fact – centering on treatment instead of prevention – with a heavy burden on the individual, not the organization.
While treatment is effective and individuals have a personal responsibility, burnout also needs to be addressed by making workplace well-being a strategic focus. One that is executed with intention and consistency through measures that affect the very heart of an organization: its culture.