Page 173 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT FEBRUARY 2024

2/16/24, 5:15 PM Running on empty: Are you ready for the burnout crisis?
Furthermore, he emphasises the imperative of integrating risk management into
organisational processes to navigate crises effectively. He explains, “Mitigating burnout

requires a proactive approach centered around robust risk management strategies.

Organisations must prioritise the well-being of their workforce by implementing measures

to address burnout risks head-on. This entails fostering a culture of resilience and
providing support mechanisms to help employees navigate challenging circumstances

effectively.”

However, the risk of burnout has grown even as economies demand more from workers,

and businesses need to grow and expand. The US, Germany, Japan are seeing high

burnout rates even as their economies need workers to increase productivity. Japan for
instance slipped into a recession at the end of last year, losing its title as the world’s third-

biggest economy, according to a Reuters report.

Acknowledging the delicate balance between economic imperatives and employee well-

being, Dr Aihie affirms the need for workplaces to evolve their work culture. “It’s indeed a

delicate balance. Organisations must recognise the importance of prioritising employee
well-being alongside economic imperatives. This involves fostering a supportive work

environment that promotes work-life balance, offers flexible working arrangements, and

implements initiatives to prevent burnout. By investing in the well-being of their workforce,
organizations can ultimately enhance productivity and drive sustainable growth.

The shift towards flexible working arrangements during the pandemic underscored
changing expectations among the workforce, necessitating a reevaluation of organisational

structures to foster resilience.

He advocates for empowering employees through resilient work environments, averting

phenomena like “quiet quitting,” where disengagement becomes endemic.

Dr Aihie says, “Addressing mental health stigma requires a multifaceted approach.

Education plays a pivotal role in raising awareness and destigmatising mental health

issues. Organisations can and must implement training programmes, such as mental
health first aid, to equip employees with the knowledge and skills to identify and support

colleagues experiencing mental health challenges.”

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