Dangerous Burnout Rates and Why Malaysia Must Act Now
PETALING JAYA: Ever Feel Like You’re Drowning in Deadlines? You’re Not Alone
Malaysia’s workforce is buckling under immense pressure, and it’s taking a toll on everyone. With 67% of Malaysian employees reporting burnout as of April 2024, the country ranks among the highest in the world for workplace stress.
The Surge in Burnout: A Silent Epidemic
According to Professor Glenn Hitchman, Head of Psychology at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, the surge in burnout, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic, has turned workplace stress into a silent epidemic that affects not just individuals, but the broader economy as well.
The Consequences of Ignoring Burnout
"Ignoring mental health often leads to absenteeism, turnover, and a direct hit to productivity," said Hitchman. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that poor mental health has cost the global economy US$1 trillion annually, with Malaysia losing RM14.46 billion – 1% of its GDP – due to mental health-related issues.
Work-Life Balance: A Struggle in Malaysia
Malaysia’s poor ranking when it comes to work-life balance is another concerning issue. A recent study ranked Malaysia as the second worst country for work-life balance among 60 nations with the highest GDP. "Malaysian employees work over 45 hours per week… The long hours, combined with pressure from management and limited career development, paint a picture of a workforce that is stretched thin and struggling to keep up," Hitchman said.
The Rise of Depression in Malaysia
The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023 revealed that approximately one million Malaysians – 4.6% of those over the age of 15 – are suffering from depression. More worrying is that depression rates have doubled since 2019, with nearly half of those affected reporting thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Identifying the Signs of Burnout
"One of the key challenges is identifying when regular work stress escalates into something more serious," Hitchman said. "If stress persists long after work-related issues are resolved and feels constant, it’s a sign that something deeper may be wrong."
Building a Supportive Work Environment
Hitchman emphasized that cultivating an open dialogue can have transformative effects. "When employees feel safe to discuss their mental health struggles, it can foster a sense of community and support."
What Now?
Employers can take actionable steps to address mental health in the workplace, such as:
- Encouraging open dialogue
- Implementing a buddy system
- Providing resources for mental health training and support
Employees, too, can take control of their stress levels by:
- Building strong relationships with colleagues
- Developing personal coping mechanisms
- Practicing effective time management and relaxation techniques
Conclusion
Malaysia cannot afford to lose its human capital to stress and burnout. The conversation has started; now it’s time to act. By recognizing the signs of burnout, creating a supportive work environment, and taking proactive measures to address mental health, we can pave the way for a healthier, more productive workforce.
FAQs
Q: Why is burnout a pressing concern in Malaysia?
A: Burnout is a significant issue in Malaysia due to the country’s high-stress work environment, inadequate work-life balance, and stigma surrounding mental health.
Q: What are the consequences of ignoring burnout?
A: Ignoring burnout can lead to absenteeism, turnover, and a direct hit to productivity, resulting in financial losses for both employees and employers.
Q: How can employers address burnout in the workplace?
A: Employers can encourage open dialogue, implement a buddy system, and provide resources for mental health training and support.
Q: What can employees do to manage stress levels?
A: Employees can build strong relationships with colleagues, develop personal coping mechanisms, and practice effective time management and relaxation techniques.