What Is Employee Burnout & Tips on Preventing It

In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) included burnout in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD‑11) as an occupational phenomenon.

The WHO defines burnout as “a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed, characterized by three dimensions: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job; and reduced professional efficacy.”

In this article, we share tips on how to recognize employee burnout and steps your organization can take to help reduce and prevent it.Look for signs of burnout in your employees.

There are several signs that may indicate an employee is experiencing burnout:

• Changes in behaviour. For example, they may become short in conversations or begin making comments that seem out of character.

• Personal stressors. With many people working from home, employees may be juggling childcare, remote schooling, or other responsibilities that contribute to burnout.

• High achievers at risk. Employees who consistently take on more work or stay late to “finish one more thing” may be especially vulnerable. Working remotely can intensify this, as they may feel they have more time without commuting or office interruptions.

Build company culture.

If revenue is your only focus as an employer, it will eventually show in your employees’ attitudes. Lack of motivation, creativity, enthusiasm, and increased burnout are all signs that your organization may need to strengthen its culture. A healthy workplace balances productivity with connection and downtime. Consider scheduling a casual Zoom meeting on a Friday afternoon to catch up and build rapport.

Encourage your employees to take breaks.

Working from home can make it harder for employees to step away from their desks or take time off. Remind them to:

• Take a proper lunch break away from their laptop

• Avoid answering emails after work hours

• Refrain from working on weekends

• Take a mental health day when needed

• Get fresh air by going for a walk

Regular breaks and time off help employees stay focused, energized, and less prone to burnout.

Communicate with your employees.

Communication is essential — especially when everyone is working remotely. Open conversations can help identify issues early and prevent burnout.

Encourage managers to:

• Check in regularly and ask how employees are coping

• Invite feedback or concerns about workload or company processes

• Discuss whether any tasks or projects can be deprioritized

• Promote peer‑to‑peer support and collaboration

Strong communication helps employees feel supported and reduces feelings of isolation.

Click here to watch Marc Belaiche, CPA, CA, President of Guhuza, discuss this topic.

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