Exhausted from work? Nearly half of S'pore workers surveyed feel the same

Those under 40 are three times more likely to feel extremely burnt out than workers over 50

- Ian Cheng

Nearly half of the workers in Singapore feel exhausted after a day at work, a recent survey by a health technology provider has shown.

The survey by Telus Health polled 1,000 workers across a range of industries, including health and social services, public administration and defence, as well as manufacturing and construction.

The findings point to the growing risk of burnout among workers and a need for greater mental health support, said the firm.

The report, which was released on June 13, showed that 47 per cent of the workers in Singapore feel mentally or physically exhausted by their work.

Exhaustion is one of the three main symptoms of burnout, which is also characterised by diminished performance and cynicism, said Telus Health's director for Asia, Mr Haider Amir.

The study showed that twothirds of the workers here have at least one of these three indicators of burnout, with those under the age of 40 being three times more likely to feel extremely burnt out than workers over 50.

The same group was also nearly twice as likely as workers over 50 to find it difficult to be motivated to do their work.

Workers said the top reason for burnout was having too much work - this was cited by 27 per cent of respondents.

Other reasons include having too many personal demands (16 per cent), a lack of recognition (13 per cent) and worries about losing their jobs or lack of support for their work (9 per cent).