Bandung, IndonesiaSentinel.com — Job Burnout is a psychological condition characterized by mental exhaustion resulting from exhausting jobs and chronic workplace stress. Despite the increasing awareness of burnout, many jobs that contribute to it remain highly sought after in today’s workforce.
According to a study by LinkedIn, which surveyed 16,000 professionals in the United States, project managers are among the top professions associated with high burnout rates, even though the role continues to be in high demand.
The LinkedIn study found that four out of 10 American workers reported feeling “stuck” and exhausted in their roles. The burnout rate is even higher for project managers, with 50% of those surveyed admitting they feel drained by their work. Additionally, one-third of professionals in consulting, real estate, and business development also reported experiencing significant stress and fatigue.
According to LinkedIn, the following professions are most prone to burnout:
- Program and Project Management
- Healthcare
- Community and Social Services
- Quality Assurance
- Education
Job Burnout is not solely caused by long hours or heavy workloads. According to Kandi Wiens, Director of the Master’s Program in Medical Education at the University of Pennsylvania, burnout often stems from deeper issues within the workplace.
Her interviews with hundreds of professionals in high-pressure environments, such as hospital employees, project managers, and business executives, revealed that continuous multitasking and tight deadlines are major contributors to burnout.
For project managers, acting as a liaison between employees and clients can further intensify stress. Wiens emphasizes that the ongoing recruitment of project managers by companies across industries raises concerns. “I work with many project managers, and a common worry is the lack of support or recognition for meeting changing demands,” she says. “This mismatch between expectations and resources is a key driver of burnout.”
Burnout symptoms typically include emotional exhaustion, detachment from work, and reduced performance. Physical symptoms can manifest as headaches, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. Workers may also experience feelings of cynicism, decreased motivation, and a sense of helplessness in their roles.
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Burnout is not exclusive to project management. Healthcare, education, and community service workers are also at high risk due to the emotional demands of their roles. “These jobs are emotionally taxing,” Wiens explains. “In healthcare, for instance, nurses face challenging and sensitive situations that can have serious consequences for patients’ well-being, which is both mentally and emotionally draining.”
The high-pressure environment of these professions, combined with limited control over outcomes, adds to the burden. For instance, teachers and social workers often face tight budgets, large workloads, and bureaucratic hurdles, leaving them feeling powerless to effect meaningful change.
As burnout in workplace sometimes inevitable, it’s essential to evaluate the potential for burnout before accepting a job. Consider whether the role aligns with your personality and temperament, the work environment, and the level of support offered by the organization. Wiens advises asking prospective employers during interviews about the resources available to support employee well-being, such as flexible scheduling, managerial support, and mental health benefits.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of burnout can help workers take proactive steps to manage stress and protect their mental health in high-pressure professions. By fostering a culture of well-being and support, organizations can reduce burnout and improve employee satisfaction.
(Raidi/Agung)
