Work-related burnout can affect any employee, regardless of gender or job type. However, recent surveys and studies have shown a notable increase in burnout among working women. In fact, more than a third of women now report experiencing burnout as a regular part of their job.
Changes in the workplace over the past few years have been linked to this increase. For many, remote or hybrid work schedules have been beneficial. However, the increased burnout among women is often attributed to workplace changes such as shifting roles, intersecting challenges, and unequal demands.
When burnout becomes overwhelming, it can lead to higher turnover rates, as women seek new employment. It can also result in more time off for mental health reasons.
What can employers do to combat burnout? While there is no simple solution, the first step is to address the imbalances contributing to the gender gap. One of the top causes of burnout is feeling unfairly treated. Employers can counter this by reevaluating policies and being mindful of systemic, procedural, and cultural factors that may affect women differently.
Another approach is to improve communication. Regular team check-ins can help identify potential risks and assess any cultural issues within the company. These check-ins should include all employees, whether on-site, remote, or in a hybrid setup.
Routine check-ins can more accurately measure and track team well-being and engagement. While this information alone won’t solve the problems, it can drive actionable change. Lastly, consider investing in burnout support programs to help those experiencing workplace strain.
For additional information on addressing the gender gap in employee burnout, please see the accompanying resource.
Addressing The Gender Gap In Employee Burnouts was created by Workplace Options, an organization offering corporate wellness solutions
