Understanding Burnout
- Emily Elliott
- Feb 3, 2023
- 2 min read
Originally published by Mind Meld Psychotherapy (MMP); updated for OSO Wellness
The new year can bring fresh challenges and unexpected changes. Ensuring we’re in the best possible state to meet them is crucial—not just to survive, but to thrive. The American Psychological Association’s 2021 Work and Well-being Survey found that 79% of U.S. adult workers experienced work-related stress. Nearly 3 in 5 reported negative impacts stemming from that stress.
While we may try to leave those stressors at work, they often follow us home. So how do we actually recharge ourselves while still on the clock?
1) Clarify Expectations
Stress often stems from unclear or shifting expectations. When was the last time you were given a task that made little sense, despite your best efforts? Instead of spinning your wheels, take initiative—ask for clarification, talk it out with a peer, or request clearer guidance from supervisors. You’re not failing by asking questions—you’re advocating for efficiency and sustainability.
2) Reduce Isolation
Many of us suffer in silence, having learned to “tough it out.” But remember that you’re likely not alone—if 79% of workers are struggling, odds are your coworkers are too. Create space in your team to talk about stress. Normalize these conversations. You’re not weak for needing support—you’re human. And you can’t do your best work if you’re running on empty.
3) Find Balance
This step is the hardest: reminding ourselves that we are not our jobs. Try this reflective exercise:
List key areas of your life (e.g., health, career, relationships, hobbies).
Estimate the percentage of your energy you’re putting into each area.
Then, next to each one, write the percentage you wish you were putting in.
Take a moment to compare. Are your priorities in alignment? Maybe you’ve been over-investing in work while neglecting friendships or your own wellbeing. The numbers don’t lie—they show us what’s been out of balance.
Reducing burnout isn’t just an individual task—it’s a collective responsibility. For those in leadership, it’s important to reflect on team structure, communication patterns, and whether your culture genuinely supports time off and recovery. According to Gallup, burned-out employees are:
63% more likely to take a sick day
23% more likely to visit the ER
2.6 times more likely to be actively job hunting
Burnout isn’t inevitable. It’s treatable. And OSO Wellness is here to help.
Whether you're a team leader navigating organizational stress or an individual seeking support, we invite you to connect with one of our clinicians. Let’s work together to bring balance, clarity, and wellness back into your life.
📞 Call us at (804) 409-7525 or click the Client Portal at the top of this page to schedule a consultation.
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