The “Burnout Generation”: Why Gen Z and Millennials are Exhausted, and What We Can Do

About It

If there’s one thing that unites Millennials and Gen Z, it’s the pervasive feeling of burnout. From the constant pressure to succeed to the never-ending news cycle, it’s no wonder that these generations are feeling overwhelmed.

The Rise of Burnout
Burnout isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a real phenomenon with serious consequences. The World Health Organization recognizes burnout as an “occupational phenomenon” characterized by feelings of exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced professional efficacy.
Why are Gen Z and Millennials so susceptible to burnout?

There are several factors contributing to the rise of burnout among these generations:
* The Pressure to Succeed: From a young age, Millennials and Gen Z have been told that they need to excel in every aspect of their lives. This pressure to achieve can lead to constant stress and anxiety.
* The Gig Economy: The rise of the gig economy has created a precarious work environment for many young people. With no guarantee of stable income or benefits, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and insecure.
* Social Media: While social media can be a great way to connect with others, it can also contribute to feelings of inadequacy and FOMO (fear of missing out).
* The 24/7 News Cycle: With constant news alerts and social media updates, it’s hard to escape the negativity in the world. This can lead to feelings of helplessness and anxiety.

The Consequences of Burnout
Burnout isn’t just a feeling; it can have serious consequences for both physical and mental health. Some of the potential consequences of burnout include:
* Depression and Anxiety: Burnout can increase the risk of developing mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
* Physical Health Problems: Burnout can also lead to physical health problems, such as headaches, stomach problems, and insomnia.
* Decreased Productivity: When you’re feeling burnt out, it’s hard to focus and be productive. This can lead to problems at work or school.
* Relationship Problems: Burnout can also strain relationships with friends, family, and romantic partners.

What Can We Do About It?
While burnout is a serious problem, there are things we can do to combat it. Here are a few tips:
* Set Boundaries: It’s important to set boundaries between your work or school life and your personal life. This means turning off your phone and laptop after a certain time and making time for activities you enjoy.
* Prioritize Self-Care: Make sure to prioritize self-care activities, such as exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep.
* Connect with Others: Spend time with people who make you feel good. This could include friends, family, or a therapist.
* Say No: It’s okay to say no to additional commitments, especially if you’re already feeling overwhelmed.
* Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with burnout, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can provide you with support and strategies for coping with burnout.

The Future of Work
The rise of burnout among Gen Z and Millennials is a wake-up call for employers. To attract and retain top talent, companies need to create a work environment that supports employee well-being. This could include offering flexible work arrangements, providing mental health resources, and encouraging employees to take breaks.

It’s Time for a Change
The “burnout generation” is tired of feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. It’s time for a change. By setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and seeking support, we can combat burnout and create a more sustainable way of living.

tik4tat research team

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