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Burnout among workers is now a diagnosable condition

On Behalf of | Nov 25, 2019 | Workplace Injuries

In New Jersey, as elsewhere, burnout is becoming a problem for many workers across a range of industries. Burnout is now a diagnosable condition according to the World Health Organization. The WHO defines it in its occupational context as a syndrome arising from poorly managed workplace stress that leads to feelings of physical exhaustion and a great mental distance from one’s job.

It can be accompanied by cynical thoughts about one’s job, anxiety, irritability and an overall lack of concentration on one’s work. Burnout can also be a serious job-related hazard. Burnt-out workers are known to delay in responding to emergencies and fall behind in their work, and they can also misuse heavy machinery and engage in unsafe driving. They may even get in arguments and fights with other employees.

Those who directly supervise workers, be they employers or managers, can do something to prevent burnout-related incidents. First of all, they can give talks to raise awareness of the condition and encourage employees to seek help if they suffer from it. They can set up employee assistance programs and provide training for burnt-out workers. Some workers would do well to have paid time off work.

Workers may have trouble establishing burnout if they file a claim. This is because burnout is not yet recognized as an occupational illness.

When pursuing cases for accidents on the job, it may be a good idea for victims to hire a lawyer. Filing for workers’ compensation is different from filing a personal injury claim; for one thing, no one’s negligence needs to be established for victims to be eligible. However, victims may need to file an appeal against an employer’s denial of benefits. A lawyer may also help victims weigh the pros and cons of striving for a lump-sum Section 20 settlement.

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