SA's burnout epidemic: 1 in 3 employees facing mental health struggles
A new report by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group highlights five key mental health challenges currently affecting workers, with burnout flagged as especially dangerous.
Burnout, work, woman at computer. Pexels/Resume Genius
702's Gugs Mhlungu spoke to resident GP and Proactive Health Solutions CEO, Dr Fundile Nyati.
Listen to their conversation in the audio clip below.
As Mental Health Awareness Month gets underway, a troubling new report from the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) reveals just how widespread mental health issues are in the workplace.
According to the findings, one in three employees in South Africa is grappling with a mental health challenge, a "big jump" from the pre-COVID figure of one in four, says Nyati.
The SADAG report highlights five key mental health challenges currently affecting workers: depression (32%), stress (25%), anxiety (18%), burnout (13%), and trauma (10%).
Burnout, in particular, was singled out as especially dangerous.
Nyati explains that burnout is defined as chronic stress resulting from unresolved workplace issues.
"...it is a mental and emotional state that arises due to prolonged, unresolved frustration and stress in the workplace that has not been effectively managed."
- Dr Fundile Nyati, GP and Proactive Health Solutions CEO
He adds that over time, burnout can lead to exhaustion, cynicism, and a sharp drop in performance, not just in high-stress jobs like healthcare, but across all sectors.
Nyati stresses the importance of recognising the signs of stress early and taking action before it leads to burnout or more serious mental illness.
He emphasises the importance of employees taking time to recharge.
"...people are entitled to annual leave, but you get people who do not take annual leave days, and they continue working. There is a reason why there is annual leave, which is something that is in the Basic Conditions of Employment Act."
- Dr Fundile Nyati, GP and Proactive Health Solutions CEO
There is still significant stigma surrounding mental health challenges, states Nyati, as many individuals do not readily seek professional help.
If you are facing mental health challenges, consider speaking to your doctor, making use of workplace wellness programmes or reaching out to support groups like SADAG and Lifeline.
Scroll up to listen to the full conversation