What’s trending?
Burnout rates among the young are on the rise. The youth are more anxious and stressed out than ever before. Many countries around the globe are coming up with worrying signs of distress. An online UK survey found that six out of ten people aged 18 to 24 said they were so stressed by the pressure to succeed that they felt unable to cope. Massive candles are popping up around Denmark to raise the alarm on mental health. Today, 44% of Danish youth are feeling burnt out while in South Africa the staggeringly high rate of youth unemployment is contributing to heightened stress levels. According to the World Health Organization, suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15- to 29-year-olds. There are many reasons cited for these feelings among the youth. Too many expectations and demands are being placed on them, by parents, employers and the young people themselves. Moreover, digital technologies and social media are exacerbating feelings of anxiety and depression.
Why is it important?
When adolescents become overloaded with stress, it can lead to anxiety, withdrawal, aggression, physical illness, or poor coping skills combined with drug and/or alcohol use. These can impact negatively on the productivity and effectiveness of young employees in the workplace, or indeed on the parents of affected young people. A survey conducted by Nationwide Children’s Hospital in the US, found that between 53% of working parents have missed work at least once per month to deal with their children’s mental health.
What can businesses do about it?
Businesses should foster a healthy working environment to help employees avoid burnout. Measures include creating an environment where employees can build supportive relationships with coworkers and mentors; encouraging communication and relaxation so that employees know they are being supported. Rewarding and showing appreciation to employees will go a long way towards keeping them inspired and motivated, which is important for their wellbeing. Expanding employee benefits, such as mental health resources, caregiving, and sick leave is encouraged.
By Faeeza Khan
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Image Credit: Rodnae Productions
