Long hours and constant availability are often valued more than mental well-being and balance in our current work culture. But at what cost? A recent Harris Poll conducted by Yoh uncovered a troubling reality—burnout isn’t just a concern for American workers; it’s a lived experience. Nearly one in three employed Americans reported facing job burnout at least once in the past year. Even more concerning, many people don’t even recognize they’re burned out until it takes a toll on their health and productivity.

The newest episode of our Back to Work podcast series examines this critical trend and discusses what hiring managers can do to foster a healthier, more sustainable workplace culture.

Podcast host Joe McIntyre welcomes Dr. Bryan E. Robinson, a licensed psychotherapist, journalist, and Professor Emeritus at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He is the author of more than 40 books, including Chained to the Desk, #Chill: Turn Off Your Job and Turn On Your Life and Daily Writing Resilience.

Listen to the Full Podcast Episode:

biggest contributors to the burnout crisis

Burnout isn’t just another word for work stress. It’s a much more serious condition that can take a long time to recover from, and a simple vacation won’t fix it. That’s why prevention is key.

Dr. Robinson urges managers to be on the lookout for telltale signs among their teams, including exhaustion, noticeable behavior changes, and a lack of enthusiasm for work. Employees who were once engaged may start to feel distant or even cynical about their roles. As burnout takes hold, efficiency drops significantly, impacting both the individual and the organization.

According to the World Health Organization, burnout is the result of chronic, unmanaged stress, and once it sets in, recovery is neither quick nor easy. Recognizing these warning signs early can help leaders step in before burnout takes a lasting toll.

Long-Term Strategies for Preventing and Addressing Burnout

Since burnout has no quick fix, managers must take a proactive and sustained approach to employee well-being. Regular check-ins—beyond just performance discussions—help employees feel seen and supported, fostering a workplace culture where mental health is prioritized.

Additionally, encouraging micro-breaks throughout the day is scientifically proven to boost productivity and prevent burnout. Dr. Robinson cites research from North Carolina State University showing that even five-minute breaks, whether stepping outside, stretching, or simply pausing to breathe, can have a significant impact.

The key to preventing burnout is balance. Employees need time to reset in order to stay engaged and productive. By incorporating these long-term strategies, organizations can foster a workplace where employees feel valued and supported. 

Tune In for More

Burnout is a growing crisis, but with the right strategies, it can be prevented before it takes a lasting toll. Whether you're an employee looking for ways to protect your well-being or a leader striving to create a healthier workplace, understanding the causes, warning signs, and solutions is crucial.

Listen to the full podcast episode for all of Dr. Robinson's insights on practical burnout prevention techniques, recognizing early warning signs, and how both employees and managers can create a more balanced and healthy work environment.