Burnout at Work: Warning Signs and How to Get Help

Burnout isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a real problem for workers and employers. In 2025, 66% of U.S. employees said they felt some level of burnout (Forbes). The numbers are even higher for younger workers: 81% of those ages 18-24 and 83% of those ages 25-34 reported symptoms. People working from home are also affected, with 69% saying they experience burnout (Robinson, 2025).

The True Cost of Burnout

Burnout affects more than morale; it affects the bottom line. Burnout costs U.S. businesses about $332 billion each year. This comes from missed work, lower productivity, employee turnover and higher healthcare costs. (Simpson & Gillis, 2025). On a personal level, burnout can lead to:

• Emotional and physical exhaustion
• Declines in job performance and satisfaction
• Anxiety, depression and chronic health issues

What Causes Workplace Burnout?

• Burnout usually comes from systemic issues in the workplace, not from personal weakness. Some common causes include: Chronic understaffing and overwhelming workloads
• Lack of control over one’s schedule or job responsibilities
• Poor leadership, workplace bullying or toxic environments
• Feeling undervalued or disconnected from coworkers
• Insufficient resources and poor processes

Over time, these pressures can take a serious toll on physical and mental well-being.

Signs You Might Be Experiencing Burnout

Recognizing burnout early is key to managing it. Some common signs include:

• Persistent fatigue and low energy
• Difficulty concentrating or staying motivated
• Dreading the workday or avoiding responsibilities
• Taking more sick or mental health days
• • Getting irritated more often and pulling away from coworkers Physical symptoms like headaches, gastrointestinal issues or poor sleep
• Using substances or unhealthy coping habits

Strategies to Combat Burnout

If you're feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone. There are steps you can take to regain control.

For Employees:

• Use Your Paid Time Off: Nearly 60% of American workers didn’t use all their paid time off (PTO) in 2024 (Robinson, 2025). Stepping away from work to spend time with loved ones or do activities you enjoy restores clarity and improves well-being.
• Take Breaks: Use your breaks to recharge! Step outside, stretch, move your body or practice deep breathing.
• Seek Support: Connect with colleagues, join employee resources groups (ERGs) or find a mentor you trust.
• Practice Self-Care: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, eat a balanced diet and move your body every day.
• Set Boundaries: Set clear work-life boundaries by defining your personal balance goals and limiting work beyond your required responsibilities. This might include avoiding emails after 5 p.m., declining work calls during PTO and maintaining established boundaries that protect your time and well-being.
• Reframe Expectations: Re-evaluate work habits that may be contributing to stress, such as excessive screen time or perfectionism.
• Find Joy Outside of Work: Engage in hobbies or creative activities that help you disconnect and recharge.
• Consider Counseling: Talk therapy can provide tools to manage stress. Many employers, including Bronson, offer free sessions through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).[LL1] 
• Explore Your Options: Updating your resume or exploring new job opportunities can create a sense of empowerment.

For Employers: