Burnout in the Workplace

A Growing Crisis in the Western World

In today’s fast-paced global economy, burnout in the workplace is not just a buzzword… It's an escalating public health crisis. Across the Western world, burnout is silently dismantling careers, disrupting families, and costing billions in lost productivity. Understanding burnout, its causes, and how to address it has never been more critical.

This blog explores the phenomenon of burnout, offers fresh statistics, dives into the unique situation in Perth, and proposes practical solutions for individuals as well as organizations.

What Is Burnout?

The World Health Organization (WHO) officially classified burnout in 2019 as an "occupational phenomenon," not a medical condition. It defines burnout as:

⦁ Exhaustion

⦁ Feelings of energy depletion

⦁ Increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism

⦁ Reduced professional efficacy

Burnout is not simply about being tired. It is a deep, systemic response to chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.

Burnout: The Bigger Picture

Australia stands out with some of the highest reported burnout rates worldwide. A study by UiPath reveals that 82% of Australian knowledge workers feel burnt out, with 36% identifying as very or extremely burnt out—the highest among surveyed nations.

Further, a report from HR Leader highlights that 81% of the Australian workforce is struggling with stress and burnout, surpassing the global figure of 73%.

Recent research paints a stark picture:

⦁ In the 2023 Gallup State of the Global Workplace report, 44% of workers globally said they experienced daily stress at work.

⦁ Burnout costs the global economy an estimated $322 billion annually in lost productivity, according to the WHO.

⦁ In Australia, burnout is climbing alarmingly, particularly post-pandemic.

It is thus evident that burnout is not isolated to one country or culture; it’s a systemic issue deeply embedded in modern work environments and needs urgent attention.

Burnout: A Local Focus  

Perth, known for its beautiful coastline, mining wealth, and relaxed lifestyle, might seem like an unlikely place for work-related stress. Yet statistics suggest otherwise.

A 2023 report from Safe Work Australia revealed:

⦁ 91% of serious workers' compensation claims involved mental health conditions caused by work-related stress.

⦁ The cost of untreated mental health conditions to Australian workplaces is around $10.9 billion annually.

⦁ According to a 2024 survey by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 1 in 5 Western Australians reported high or very high levels of psychological distress, higher than the national average.

⦁ The FIFO (fly-in-fly-out) workforce in Western Australia’s mining and construction sectors faces burnout rates up to 33% higher than the general workforce, according to Curtin University's Centre for Transformative Work Design.

⦁ In 2023, indicators of a Thriving Workplace report revealed that 36% of employees in WA experienced moderate to severe burnout symptoms.

⦁ In Perth, some of the highest burnout rates are reported in the professional services and healthcare sectors, closely followed by education and community services.

Notably, Perth’s burnout crisis is uniquely contributed to by the combination of geographic isolation, cost-of-living pressures, and a work culture that values long hours. Recent surveys suggest that up to 60% of Perth professionals feel significantly more stressed today than five years ago.

Why Burnout Is Rising in Perth, WA

Several distinct factors make Perth particularly vulnerable:

1. FIFO and Mining Industry Pressures

Western Australia’s economy relies heavily on the mining sector. Some FIFO workers fly to remote locations for weeks at a time, facing the following issues:

⦁ Extreme work environments

⦁ Isolation from family and social networks

⦁ Long hours (often 12-hour shifts for 14+ days straight)

⦁ Lack of psychological support

This lifestyle, although financially rewarding, often leads to chronic exhaustion, loneliness, and mental fatigue.

2. Cost of Living and Financial Stress

Perth's cost of living (including housing, groceries, and energy) has increased sharply since 2020. Many employees now feel forced to work longer hours or take multiple jobs to maintain their standard of living, pushing them toward exhaustion.

3. Work remotely and "Always-On-Standby" Culture

During COVID-19, the shift to working remotely changed the boundaries between work and personal life. Workers were under immense pressure to keep their jobs to care for their families. Even as restrictions lifted, many workers in Perth continued to face coping with these sudden changes:

⦁ Lack of work-life balance

⦁ Unrealistic expectations of being available 24/7

⦁ Working longer hours into weekends and evenings

4. Geographic Isolation

Although Perth is a beautiful, vibrant city, it is also known as the most isolated major city in the world. This physical separation from other global cities can sometimes lead to:

⦁ A culture of self-reliance over seeking help

⦁ Fewer corporate opportunities

⦁ Limited access to specialized mental health resources

Symptoms of Burnout

Burnout can manifest mentally, emotionally, and/or physically. Some common symptoms include:

⦁ Anxiety 

⦁ Chronic fatigue

⦁ Cynicism toward work and colleagues

⦁ Decreased job performance and satisfaction

⦁ Emotional volatility

⦁ Feelings of hopelessness

⦁ Insomnia

⦁ Irritability

⦁ Panic attacks

⦁ Physical ailments

It is of utmost importance to check yourself frequently for these symptoms, as burnout can lead to serious health issues, including depression, heart disease, and even substance abuse.

High-Risk Sectors

Professions in Perth that are particularly susceptible to burnout:

⦁ Healthcare Workers: A survey by Mental Health Australia found that 84% of healthcare professionals reported increased stress and pressure during and after the pandemic, with many citing burnout as a significant concern.

⦁ Educators: The education sector is struggling with high burnout rates, with reports indicating that 50% of teachers experience extreme stress. Many consider leaving the profession.

Strategies to Help Manage Burnout in the Workplace

Burnout in the workplace is not an isolated problem. In fact, most employers commit to doing what is necessary to ensure a healthier work environment for the individual to start the healing process. Individuals should be encouraged to speak out when they feel overwhelmed. Both have the responsibility to take action to make certain changes.

Actions individuals can take:

1. Self-awareness 

Pay close attention to changes within yourself, like shifts in mood, differences in energy levels, or work performance. Remember that self-awareness is the first step in burnout prevention. Putting yourself first means prioritizing your own needs before the requirements of any deadline, which can be life-saving. Always be aware to recognize the warning signs early. 

2. Set Healthy Boundaries with employers

Set healthy boundaries for yourself, for example, hours of work, duties, and responsibilities. Remember, your health comes first. When you are struggling with work/life balance because you are burning the candle on both ends, take the time to speak to your superior.

3. Prioritize your self-care

⦁ Replace unhealthy foods with nutritious meals instead

⦁ Engage in hobbies or activities outside of work

⦁ Exercise regularly

⦁ Take daily supplements to build physical and emotional strength

⦁ Sleep at least 7–8 hours per night

4. Seek Professional Assistance and Support

Although you can implement certain strategies to help you cope with life’s demands, you can only help yourself to a certain extent - everyone has their own ‘personal ceiling.’ Our highly qualified counselors and life coaches come alongside you and work through barriers such as unresolved trauma, triggers, and internal factors that cause burnout. We also help you to regain your inner strength and become the best version of yourself.

5. Connecting with Others

Find a healthy support system, such as family, friends, and community groups. Surround yourself with people who make you feel encouraged and motivated. Find a mentor who can help you through your life’s journey. Having a mentor is one of the best things you can do for yourself.

Actions employers can take

1. Promote a Culture of Mental Wellness

Encourage open conversations about mental health without the fear of stigma or resistance. Training programs and awareness days (like RUOK? Day) are a good start.

2. Manage Workloads Realistically

Employees differ from one another. Leaders should ensure employees have manageable deadlines and reasonable expectations. This is particularly important after major life events like bereavement or illness.

3. Offer Flexible Work Arrangements

Flexibility, especially around remote work, flexible hours, and mental health leave, can help employees manage their overall well-being.

4. Invest in Employee Assistance Programs

Provide easy access to confidential counseling services and mental health resources.

5. Train Managers in Mental Health First Aid

Generally, managers are often the first to notice burnout signs. Giving your team the tools to respond appropriately is paramount.

Success Stories: Signs of Progress in Perth

Several Perth-based companies are leading the way by putting employee wellness first:

⦁ Mining giants are now offering on-site mental health professionals and FIFO rosters that allow longer rest periods at home.

⦁ Tech startups are normalizing 4-day workweeks and remote-first policies to avoid burnout.

⦁ Government initiatives are investing in mental health awareness campaigns tailored to Western Australian workplaces.

A Call to Action

Burnout is not just an individual weakness or a personal failure; it is a systemic issue rooted in how we structure and value work.

In Perth and beyond, recognizing burnout as a real occupational hazard is the first step toward creating healthier, more humane workplaces.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that help is available, and change is possible. Prioritizing boundaries, self-care, care, and seeking professional support can significantly improve your quality of life.

Workplaces, too, have an urgent responsibility to redesign environments that prioritize not just productivity but also human sustainability.

In the end, fighting burnout is about more than surviving the workday… It’s about reclaiming your life.

References 

Australian Bureau of Statistics (2023). National Health Survey: First results. Available at: https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/national-health-survey-first-results (Accessed: 28 April 2025).

Beyond Blue (n.d.). Workplace mental health resources. Available at: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/about-us/about-our-work/workplace (Accessed: 28 April 2025).

Boston Consulting Group (2023). Understanding burnout: A global and Australian perspective. Available at: https://www.diversityaustralia.com.au/understanding-burnout-a-global-and-australian-perspective/  (Accessed: 28 April 2025).

Gallup (2023). Employee Burnout: Causes and Cures. Available at: https://www.gallup.com/workplace/237059/employee-burnout-part-main-causes.aspx     (Accessed: 28 April 2025).

HR Leader (2024). 81% of the Australian workforce battles stress and burnout in silence. Available at: https://www.hrleader.com.au/wellbeing/24652-81-of-the-australian-workforce-battles-stress-and-burnout-in-silence (Accessed: 28 April 2025).

Lifeline Australia (n.d.). Mental health support and crisis line. Available at: https://www.lifeline.org.au/ (Accessed: 28 April 2025).

Mental Health Australia (2023). Annual healthcare professionals survey. Available at: https://mhaustralia.org/general/annual-healthcare-professionals-survey (Accessed: 28 April 2025).

Mental Health Commission of Western Australia (2018). FIFO Mental Health Research Report. Available at: https://www.mhc.wa.gov.au/about-us/news-and-media/news-and-updates/fifo-mental-health-report/  (Accessed: 28 April 2025).

News.com.au (2023). 'Couldn't take a day': Entire industry grappling with burnout. Available at: https://www.news.com.au/finance/work/at-work/couldnt-take-a-day-entire-industry-grappling-with-burnout/news-story/1b8e409a6c435a9a224ce2cba27dab13  (Accessed: 28 April 2025).

Safe Work Australia (2023). Work-related mental health conditions. Available at: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/topic/mental-health (Accessed: 28 April 2025).

World Health Organization (2019): Burn-out an "occupational phenomenon." Available at: https://www.who.int/mental_health/evidence/burn-out/en/ (Accessed: 28 April 2025).