How to protect your people from burnout

This is a profession that thrives on long hours and a competitive culture, and it's not just lawyers who are vulnerable to burnout. Professionals across various industries are facing the same challenges and consequences—mental health is becoming a crisis that demands our immediate attention.

In the corporate world, employee wellbeing has gradually climbed the agenda with introduction of policies like the "right to switch off" by the Labour government is one of the responses to the growing concern. Belgium and Ireland have already implemented this law, empowering employees to disconnect outside of working hours. However, for some, the root of the issue lies deeper than just long working hours.

Take the legal profession, for example. Associates at top law firms are often expected to bill upwards of 2,000 hours annually—sometimes working from 9 am until midnight six days a week. Other contributing factors include high expectations placed on individuals to perform and a perfectionist personality is common in this sector, creating an internal environment that is ripe for burnout.

Employees in finance, technology, healthcare, and education are facing similar pressures. The rise in hybrid working has blurred the lines between work and personal life, leaving professionals struggling to switch off. The result is a constant state of heightened stress that leads to exhaustion, performance anxiety, and a decline in productivity.

Employers across all industries must recognise that protecting their people isn't just a moral obligation—it's a business imperative. Addressing burnout and prioritising mental health not only benefits employees but also creates a more resilient and performant workforce.

So, how can organisations create a culture that nurtures mental wellbeing while driving sustainable performance ? It begins with a shift in mindset—organisations must create a psychologically safe environment where where peak performance is promoted and wellbeing seen as a strength. Implementing a wellbeing strategy is an essential first step, providing the framework necessary to tackle mental health issues within the organisation. Training in mental health awareness is crucial, particularly for line managers who often spot early signs of burnout.

Finally, organisations should recognise when external support is necessary. Mental health is complex, and sometimes professional guidance is the most effective way to help employees recover. Engaging a burnout consultant can provide tailored strategies and tools to address the root causes of burnout and build a sustainable, high-performing workforce.

As someone who has transitioned from a successful legal career to becoming a clinical hypnotherapist and burnout advisor, I have seen firsthand how addressing burnout in the workplace can lead to transformative change. If your business is committed to protecting your people and fostering a culture of resilience, investing in expert support is a crucial step towards lasting wellbeing and success.

By Charlène Gisèle, Former Lawyer, Clinical Hypnotherapist, and Burnout Advisor