September 12, 2023
44% of 1,405 surveyed U.S. employees feel burned out at work — 45% feel “emotionally drained” from their work, and 51% feel “used up” at the end of the workday, highlights research from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) 2024 Employee Mental Health Research Series. Health consequences often accompany burnout, and can impact an individual’s quality of life as a result. From the physical impact of stress to how it can leave its mark on the body over time, individuals with a high-pressure career in business can make positive changes that can help avoid issues right from the start.
High-pressure careers in business are synonymous with stress, whether you’re new to a leadership position with plenty of responsibility or you’ve just launched a startup. Stress alone can result in a variety of symptoms from headaches to insomnia, and can contribute to burnout. Burnout is typically defined as a reaction to prolonged (or chronic) job stress, and is characterised by exhaustion, cynicism, and feelings of reduced professional ability. Burnout can result in symptoms such as gastrointestinal problems, high blood pressure, and frequent headaches. While burnout isn’t a diagnosable psychological disorder, it can manifest into serious health concerns.
In the long run, chronic stress can result in serious health consequences — some experts say that stress is a leading risk factor for heart disease — aka the biggest killer in the United States. One of the most common types of heart disease is coronary artery disease. In the event of a cardiovascular condition such as coronary artery disease, an optical coherence tomography (a type of high-resolution imaging procedure) may be needed in order to produce a detailed image of the blood vessels. This procedure works to measure the thickness of plaque build-up in the arteries, and can assess the risk of a potential rupture. This information is then used to determine the best placement for heart stents, though it can also be used to monitor heart conditions and assess abnormalities. A damaged heart valve can also result in the need for a procedure. Like with coronary artery disease that involves a procedure like an optical coherence tomography, a heart valve replacement procedure requires a recovery period in the hospital, and can vary by patient.
An article from the Mayo Clinic Press expands on the causes of burnout, which range from a heavy workload and long hours to a struggle with work-life balance, as well as work in a ‘helping profession,’ like healthcare. As highlighted by the World Health Organisation (WHO), burnout involves sentiments such as regular exhaustion, a negative or cynical outlook about the job, or simply being unable to do your best work. The implementation of clear-cut boundaries can be a major way that business professionals can ease the stress of a high-pressure career, as it can help avoid a blurred line between work and home.
In many cases, healthy boundaries can be the first step to a healthier lifestyle and work-life balance, though it can be difficult for leaders in business who feel the need to constantly be productive. One LinkedIn article by Michelle “MACE” Curran notes that clear limits can help prevent burnout, maintain productivity, as well as provide balance and fulfillment. It’s important to note that boundaries can take time to implement successfully, though Curran recommends several helpful strategies that one can utilise to get started. Set work hours, physical separation in the home for remote work (a home office), as well as simply saying ‘no’ to extra tasks are just a few that can be implemented right away.
Self-care is another one of Curran’s recommendations. For those in high-pressure careers in the business world, dedicated time for yourself can help destress and recharge. Time spent on an activity that you enjoy can be a great place to start, whether it be a hobby, a TV show you enjoy, or a lengthy spa day. The integration of exercise and nature into your day can also be a fantastic way to reap unique benefits. One article from the Harvard Business Review (HBR) notes that research on direct exposure to nature revealed that it can enhance your recovery from stress in as little as 10 minutes. “In addition to short-term effects, being exposed to nature at work contributes positively to your well-being and lowers the likelihood of burnout.” Furthermore, it’s noted that even exposure to daylight via a window view or indoor greenery can make a difference, with positive impacts found on sleep quality as well as perceived stress. Outdoor walks, a garden, and the integration of indoor plants at home and in the office are all ideal ways to make nature a part of your daily life.
High-pressure careers in business are often synonymous with stress, which can lead to burnout over time. In order to avoid burnout and the long-term implications of stress, it’s crucial to implement strategies that protect your health and wellbeing, such as the creation of clear-cut boundaries and quality time spent with yourself.
