If you’ve been feeling like the last two years has been a tightrope walk of personal and professional challenges, you are not alone: a recent survey conducted by the Portland Business Journal and Regence BlueCross BlueShield revealed that employee burnout among Oregon respondents has more than doubled since the start of the pandemic.

Causes of employee burnout

Some of the main driving factors for increased burnout included being asked to take on more work, lack of adequate staff, and a high-stress work environment. While Oregon has for years been facing a growing mental health challenge, it’s clear that the pandemic has played a significant role in exasperating feelings of stress and depression. The challenge in front of us as business leaders is how do we support our workforces in these trying times. 

According to our survey, nearly seven out of 10 employers say their company does have an employee assistance program or wellness program to help their employees cope with burnout. Promoting engagement with these mental health programs remains an obstacle. Thankfully, the stigma surrounding mental health is starting to lose its power as we are having more conversations surrounding our mental well-being at work. 

Things you can do to cope with stress

If you are noticing that your employees may be experiencing burnout, start by evaluating their options. This can include talking with you or a human resources manager to improve their work environment and expectations. They can also take a mental health self-assessment to see where they may be able to find more balance in their life.

Ignoring burnout can have an impact on employee health from fatigue, sleepless nights, sadness, and anger to more chronic conditions like substance misuse, heart disease, high blood pressure, and Type 2 diabetes.

Here are five ways you can reduce stress in your life.

  • Take care of your body: Eat well and get plenty of exercise.
  • Feed your soul: Get out and do the things that you love.
  • Relationships: Connect with family and friends.
  • Don’t hide your emotions: Share with family and friends what’s going on in your life.
  • Attitude: Maintain a positive outlook and look for the bright things around you.

Our mental health and well-being are just as important as our physical health. Thank you for prioritizing your mental well-being and supporting those around you. For more resources, please visit Regence.com

For questions please contact Dean Johnson, strategic communications manager, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon 

Contributed by: Angela Dowling | President, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon

*Sponsored content provided by AOC Business Partner.