Approximately 40 percent of Kenyan professionals who sought treatment at the AAR Hospital Corporate Wellness Clinic are grappling with workplace burnout, highlighting the likelihood of health risks, including heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.
An analysis conducted by the medical facility over the past two years revealed that 4 in every 10 individuals presented with high levels of job-related stress, leaving them vulnerable to physical health problems.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines workplace burnout as a syndrome resulting from unmanaged chronic stress. It is characterised by exhaustion, rising cynicism towards one’s job and a persistent sense of professional underachievement.
“Workplace burnout severely impacts employee productivity. It is something that should concern every employer, who should provide a conducive environment and access to medical care when necessary,” said Gathoni Mbugua, a senior clinical psychologist at AAR.
Although burnout is not classified as a medical condition, Ms Mbugua explained that it directly affects health and can contribute to chronic illnesses if left unchecked. “The focus should be on improving employee health and well-being through preventive care, early detection, and lifestyle support,” she added.
Employers can utilise data-driven health reports integrated with HR and insurance systems to facilitate seamless follow-up. Recommended interventions include comprehensive medical check-ups, nutrition and lifestyle counselling, mental health screenings, physiotherapy, fitness consultations, vaccinations, wellness talks, and health education.
High stress and burnout are also associated with sedentary lifestyles, obesity, back problems, hypertension, diabetes, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. According to a WHO report, depression and anxiety cost the global economy 12 billion working days every year, resulting in a loss of $1 trillion (Sh129.24 trillion) in productivity.
In Kenya, experts note that employees in rapidly growing sectors such as technology, finance, health, and customer service are particularly affected by long working hours, performance targets, and job insecurity. Younger professionals under 35 report higher levels of stress due to the pressure to prove themselves, whereas older employees experience stress related to balancing workplace demands with family and financial obligations.
Despite the growing burden of mental health issues, mental health services in Kenya remain significantly underfunded, accounting for less than one percent of the national health budget. This lack of funding makes it more difficult for employees to access affordable counselling, psychiatric services, or community-level interventions, thereby exacerbating the burnout crisis.
However, there are some positive signs, with more companies in Kenya introducing flexible hours, hybrid work policies, and mandatory wellness days as part of a slow shift in workplace culture. While this progress is gradual, psychologists believe that such measures could help to reduce chronic stress and retain top talent in competitive industries.
