Employee burnout is increasingly impossible to ignore as it continues to rise to alarming levels across industries. With growing workloads, heightened stress, and the blurring of work-life boundaries, more employees are experiencing chronic exhaustion and disengagement. This pervasive issue not only affects individual well-being but also impacts organisational productivity and morale.

A recent study by Instant Offices has unveiled concerning trends surrounding employee burnout, revealing that searches for “burnout signs and symptoms” have surged by 50% worldwide in 2024. The research analysed Google search data across 30 global cities to determine where the sentiment of burnout is most prevalent, with London emerging as the city with the highest levels, followed closely by Melbourne and Singapore.

In the UK, data indicates that an alarming 91% of workers have experienced “high or extreme levels” of stress or pressure in the past year, leading one in five employees to take time off due to mental health concerns. 

The study also highlighted the struggles faced by workers in Singapore and New York, where a pervasive culture of overwork has left many feeling mentally and physically drained. 

Notably, 47% of Singaporean workers report feeling exhausted at the end of their workday, while more than 40% struggle to stay motivated. Similarly, 57% of US employees experience negative consequences from work-related stress, including emotional exhaustion and diminished productivity.

Despite Australia’s reputation for a laid-back lifestyle, Melbourne and Sydney have both made it into the top five cities for burnout sentiment, a reflection of the so-called “Great Australian Burnout.” A recent Gallup study found that 48% of Australian workers face daily stress, with 64% expressing disengagement at work.

Defining burnout

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines burnout as an “occupational phenomenon” resulting from chronic, unmanaged workplace stress. It is characterised by three dimensions: energy depletion or exhaustion, feelings of negativity or cynicism towards one’s job, and reduced professional efficacy.

Leading causes of burnout

The study identified key factors contributing to stress among UK workers, which may also resonate with Australian employees. These include:

• High Workload: 54% of respondents cited an excessive workload or an increase in unpaid tasks as significant stressors.
• Unpaid Overtime: 45% regularly work unpaid overtime.
• Isolation: 42% feel isolated in their work environment.
• Job Security: 40% are worried about redundancy or job security.
• Financial Strain: 38% are taking on extra work to manage the rising cost of living.
• Workplace Bullying: 31% reported experiences of bullying or intimidation from colleagues.

Additional lifestyle stressors such as poor sleep and financial concerns further exacerbate burnout.

Recognising the signs

Identifying burnout early can help individuals take proactive steps to address it. Common signs include difficulty concentrating, diminished pride in one’s work, loss of motivation, irritability, unexplained headaches, fatigue, and changes in sleep or appetite.

Coping strategies

To combat burnout, experts suggest the following coping strategies:

1. Physical Self-Care: Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly to boost energy levels.

2. Open Communication: Discuss workload concerns with managers and seek support from loved ones or mental health professionals.

3. Tech Breaks: Set aside time to unplug from devices and recharge.

4. Prioritisation: Focus on high-priority commitments and learn to say “no” to lower-priority tasks.

5. Relaxation Techniques: Engage in yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to alleviate stress.

Flexible Working Arrangements

Interestingly, the study indicates that flexible working arrangements can significantly reduce burnout. While 25% of employees working in fixed office locations reported burnout, only 16% of remote workers and 14% of hybrid workers felt similarly, highlighting the potential benefits of embracing flexible work models.

As burnout sentiment continues to rise globally, cities like Sydney and Melbourne must address these challenges to support employee well-being and productivity.