New study reveals signs of burnout not to be ignored

In a recent study conducted by experts at London Office Space, the most common symptoms of burnout among Brits have been revealed, highlighting a range of signs that are frequently overlooked.

Topping the list is insomnia, with an average of 31,778 monthly Google searches across the country.

In today’s high-pressure environment, the prevalence of burnout is on the rise, driven by the need to juggle multiple responsibilities and maintain high performance levels. This issue is particularly pronounced during the summer months, as employees face the dual pressures of increased workloads due to colleagues’ annual leave and the challenge of balancing work with school holidays.

Recognising Burnout Symptoms

The study underscores the importance of recognising the signs of burnout to maintain overall well-being and address the root causes before they escalate. By analysing average monthly Google searches for common burnout symptoms, the study highlights several key indicators that Brits should be mindful of:

1. Insomnia (31,778 searches/month): The most reported symptom of burnout, insomnia can be attributed to various causes. Persistent sleep disturbances exacerbate other symptoms and negatively impact overall health, making it crucial to address.
2. Detachment (5,666 searches/month): Emotional detachment from work or personal relationships is a prevalent sign of burnout. This sense of disconnection can decrease productivity and increase feelings of isolation.
3. Exhaustion (3,359 searches/month): Chronic physical and emotional exhaustion, regardless of sleep quality, significantly affects daily functioning and enthusiasm for previously enjoyed activities.
4. Isolation (2,503 searches/month): Many experiencing burnout withdraw from social interactions, intensifying feelings of loneliness and emotional distress.
5. Depersonalisation (2,177 searches/month): This serious symptom involves feeling disconnected from oneself, making it difficult to engage with daily life and responsibilities.

Top Ten Symptoms of Burnout

Burnout is emotionally draining

Alex Ugarte, Operations Manager of London Office Space, commented on the findings: “Burnout can be both physically and emotionally draining, but recognising its signs early can lead to effective intervention. It’s clear that many Brits are at risk of developing this phenomenon based on the most-Googled symptoms. Especially during the summer, workloads and responsibilities increase due to colleagues’ annual leave and the demands of the new financial year, heightening the risk of burnout.”

Strategies to help Brits monitor and manage burnout:

• Track Sleep Patterns: Pay close attention to changes in sleep habits. Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling unrested are major indicators of burnout. Practicing good sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing environment, can help.
• Assess Emotional Engagement: Reflect on your emotional connections with work and relationships. Persistent feelings of detachment or disinterest might signal burnout. Reconnecting with hobbies, taking regular breaks, and seeking support from loved ones can help rekindle emotional engagement.
• Evaluate Energy Levels: Notice if you experience chronic exhaustion that does not improve with rest. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and relaxation techniques like meditation can improve energy levels and reduce exhaustion.
• Stay Connected: Combat isolation by reaching out to friends, family, or colleagues. Social support is crucial for emotional health. If personal connections are difficult, consider joining a support group or seeking professional help.
• Seek Professional Help: If you experience symptoms like depersonalisation or feel overwhelmed, seek help from a mental health professional. Therapy or counselling can provide strategies to cope with stress and reduce the impact of burnout.

Recognising and addressing the signs of burnout is essential for maintaining mental and physical health in today’s demanding world. By paying attention to symptoms like poor sleep and seeking appropriate interventions, individuals can protect their well-being and prevent the escalation of burnout.

Amelia Brand

Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.

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