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differently. Common symptoms are fatigue, an inability to focus, and a general feeling of being overwhelmed. People
experiencing burnout often have diffi culty sleeping and are more likely to get sick. Some reports indicate that some
people experiencing burnout are more likely to abuse alcohol or other substances.
The place to start addressing the problem is by understanding and reducing the risk factors. Research shows the
following as being the primary risk factors:
• Long work hours

• A lack of support resources, a feeling of nowhere to turn for help
• A toxic work environment with cruel or abusive supervisors
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• Unclear job expectations
• Excessive job workload
• Lack of recognition for a job well done
• A feeling of being isolated with management showing favoritism to coworkers
Unfortunately, in our industry, long work hours are the norm. So too may be a workload with a signifi cant backlog—
which, of course, is a good thing. We can, however, address the majority of the risk factors. This could result in a major
culture shift within the company. But it could be well worth the effort based solely on the many benefi ts of fostering a
healthy, productive workforce.
Many of our largest companies have taken formal steps to deal with employee burnout. For example, in 2021 Amazon
launched their WorkingWell program that addresses employee mental and physical health. They have an Employee
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Assistance Program that offers confi dential counseling and support services to employees dealing with burnout and
other work-related issues. Amazon also introduced Mindfulness Training in the workplace to help employees manage
stress, reduce burnout, and improve focus.
The majority of us in manufac-
turing are nowhere near the size
of Amazon, but we can take
similar steps to help employees
deal with burnout and the loss of
productivity that accompanies it.
Whether it be the CEO or a new
apprentice hired in the toolroom,
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nobody is immune from the pos-
sibility of burnout.
If you are one of the many
employees experiencing burnout
symptoms, the Mayo Clinic
has some suggestions that can
help you manage and overcome
the feeling.
First and foremost, don’t try to
hide it. Talk to your boss and
share your thoughts. Once your
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boss understands the problem,
a plan can be put in place to
address the root cause.
Take care of your health. Try to
get some exercise, and don’t
neglect your sleep. Also, try and fi nd a relaxing activity that you can do at lunchtime or while on break. Choose
something that can help you take your mind off work for a while and help you relax. You may fi nd that taking a break
will help you improve your focus on your task.
Lastly, try to seek support from your family and coworkers. You may even fi nd that your company offers support
programs. Remember that you are not alone. While they may not show it, many of your coworkers may be dealing
with the feeling of burnout themselves.
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EDM Today, Fall 2024 Issue