Identifying and avoiding workplace burnout was the focus of a June 13 online panel discussion on mental health in the workplace organized by the NFL Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Dr. Nyaka NiiLampti, the NFL’s Vice President of Wellness and Clinical Services, moderated the discussion.
NiiLampti was joined by panelists Joe Carella, Psy.D., Licensed Psychologist & Team Clinician for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Orlando Magic; Jen Fisher, US Chief Well-being Officer at Deloitte; Dr. Maysa Akbar, Ph.D, ABPP, Chief Diversity Officer for the American Psychological Association; and Jeanie Y. Chang, LMFT, CMHIMP, CCTP, Founder of Your Change Provider, PLLC (LMFT).
Employee burnout is a problem during stable times as well as during stressful times. Lower productivity, emotional and physical exhaustion, lack of concentration, negativity and a decline in health are all signs of burnout at work.
The group discussed how burnout differs from normal stress in the workplace, identifying compassion fatigue as a major indicator of burnout. Compassion fatigue describes the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of helping others. It is often brought about by a stressful workplace or environment, lack of resources, or excessive hours.
They also talked about the importance of decoupling one’s identity from work and encouraged taking the time and energy needed to connect with other parts of one’s life.
The session wrapped with a conversation on creating and sticking to boundaries at work and being proactive about managing mental health.
