Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

4-minute read
05 July 2024 | 11:22 CAT

Photo: Canva

The South African workforce is struggling due to excessive daily stress. According to the latest Gallup report, 36% of the workforce is struggling, and more than 71% are either disengaged or actively disengaged at work, which are some alarming signs of burnout. This is not surprising considering that according to the Mental State of the World Report, South Africa, with a mental health quotient of 50 (a measure of mental well-being), ranks 69 out of 71 countries and has the greatest percentage of distressed or struggling respondents at 35%.

Those who are dedicated and committed are especially vulnerable to burnout, a condition of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged stress.

The World Health Organization has classified burnout as an occupational phenomenon, a label that underscores its significant impact on both productivity and health. This is not just a personal struggle; it’s a systemic issue that affects the entire workforce.

Prof Renata Schoeman, Head of Healthcare Leadership at Stellenbosch Business School, emphasizes that burnout is distinct from everyday stress.

It’s a persistent feeling of exhaustion and disengagement from work, often caused by an imbalance between work demands and available resources like time, support, and training.

Conflicting values between an individual and their organization can also contribute to burnout.

Health economists estimate that untreated mental health issues cost the South African economy R161 billion annually due to lost workdays, reduced productivity, and premature mortality.

The direct costs include increased absenteeism, poor work performance, and high employee turnover, while the hidden costs involve the loss of institutional knowledge and a negative impact on organizational culture.

Burnout also takes a toll on employees’ health, potentially leading to serious conditions like depression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, and weakened immune systems.

Prof Schoeman stresses that burnout develops gradually and isn’t easily fixed with a vacation. Preventing burnout requires daily self-care, including adequate sleep, exercise, healthy eating, and leisure activities.

While burnout is a significant issue, it’s not insurmountable. Organizations have the power to transform their work environments into healthier, more productive spaces. With proactive strategies and a firm commitment to mental wellness, we can create a future where burnout is no longer a prevalent problem.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Prof Renata Schoeman here.