Experts Warn of Critical Levels of Workplace Stress and Burnout Among Indian Employees

Faridabad: Medical experts at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, have raised concerns over the increasing levels of occupational stress and burnout affecting Indian employees. According to the 2024 Gallup State of Global Workplace Report, 86% of employees globally are categorized as "struggling" or "suffering" in terms of mental health, with India reflecting a similar trend of heightened workplace stress.

Recent research indicates that 40% of Indian employees frequently experience burnout, while 38% report moderate stress levels. Job dissatisfaction is widespread, with many workers considering leaving their positions. Among them, 37% of women cited poor work-life balance as their primary reason for contemplating resignation, compared to 28% of men.

Dr. Rakesh Kumar Chadda, Head of Psychiatry at Amrita Hospital, highlighted multiple factors contributing to workplace stress in India, including overwhelming workloads, irregular hours, job insecurity, and poor working conditions. The issue is further aggravated by toxic work environments, inadequate colleague support, and rising incidents of workplace bullying and harassment. The impact of this high-stress atmosphere has resulted in an uptick in physical health problems like hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease, as well as mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

A 2015 ASSOCHAM study revealed that 43% of private sector employees showed signs of anxiety or depression. These concerns were worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to 36% of Indian employees facing mental health difficulties and 50% expressing anxiety over future uncertainties.

Dr. Neatu Narang, Senior Consultant in Psychiatry at Amrita Hospital, pointed out that common symptoms of workplace stress include social withdrawal, lack of motivation, emotional instability, anxiety, and negative thinking. Physical manifestations may include headaches, sleep disorders, appetite changes, digestive issues, and eventual burnout.

Addressing this crisis requires employers to create supportive, communicative work environments that promote teamwork and mutual support. Employees, on the other hand, can adopt coping mechanisms such as time management, mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation, and making use of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to manage stress effectively.

Despite the widespread prevalence of these issues, mental health struggles among Indian employees often go unaddressed due to cultural stigmas. Many fear that acknowledging their mental health challenges could jeopardize their job security or future opportunities. Experts emphasize the urgent need for employers to implement wellness programs like mental health counseling, stress management workshops, and peer support initiatives to foster a healthier workforce.