UK workforce burned out as pandemic impact bites

A recent survey by Tide has found that almost 40 per cent of the workforce in the UK say they have experienced burnout at work in the past 12 months.

The impact of the pandemic, working from home and the stresses and strains of an unstable economy are thought to be large contributing factors.

It is thought that some the side effects of burnout can be damaging to the individual.

Psychologist Lee Chambers says that the feeling of being burned out can lead to stress, fatigue and perhaps more seriously, high blood pressure.

“Burnout can manifest itself in different forms, and certain occupations can increase your potential chance of being burnt out. It’s a very individual condition, with people presenting very differently,” says Chambers.

“Those at higher risk of burnout are in positions that involve seeing trauma, having to detach from emotive work, have long hours, and that are regularly judged and assessed.

Those who work in hospitals and veterinary surgeries, therapists and teachers, social workers and law enforcement are all at a higher risk due to the nature of their jobs.”

In nursing the problems appear to be particularly prevalent. A report was published last month by the Health and Social Care Committee that alleged nursing shortages were contributing to “emergency-level burnout”.

The Committee had been told that prior to the pandemic there were 50,000 NHS nursing vacancies while a quarter of nurses were considering quitting.

Liza Haskell, Chief Administrative Officer at Tide, comments: “Our survey shows how common burnout is in today’s society.

Long hours may seem productive in the moment, but over the long term the side effects of burnout, such as fatigue, reduced performance and lack of motivation, are likely to hinder your progress.”