A recent analysis has unveiled the U.S. states experiencing the highest levels of employee burnout in 2024, highlighting the significant pressures facing workers across the nation. The analysis utilized data from various sources to evaluate burnout-related online search activity, weekly working hours, and other relevant factors to establish a ranking based on a calculated burnout score.
Top States for Employee Burnout in 2024
Wyoming has emerged as the state with the highest employee burnout score of 86.29, largely due to extended weekly work hours averaging 42.3 and increased search activity focusing on burnout symptoms. Following closely, Vermont registered a burnout score of 80.42, with notable burnout-related searches totaling 7.72 per 100,000 people, despite a shorter average workweek of 37.8 hours. Delaware also ranked high, with a burnout score of 64.14 and an average weekly work commitment of 40.8 hours.
Rhode Island (63.95) and North Dakota (60.08) rounded out the top five states with the highest levels of burnout. These states exhibited moderate work hours coupled with significant search activity indicating workplace stress and fatigue.
Lowest Employee Burnout States
In contrast, Alaska reported the lowest burnout score at 30.04, with workers averaging just 27.7 hours per week and demonstrating moderate search interest in burnout-related topics. New Mexico (34.72), South Carolina (36.59), Arkansas (37.82), and Montana (39.02) also ranked among the states with the least burnout, suggesting healthier work-life balances due to shorter workweeks and lower burnout-related search activity.
Consequences of Burnout for Workers and Businesses
Burnout poses challenges not only for individual employees but also for businesses and the economy. Reduced productivity, higher absenteeism, and increased turnover are common repercussions for employers facing overstretched workforces. Addressing burnout is critical for the enhancement of workplace conditions, and states experiencing higher burnout levels could benefit from policies that foster work-life balance and mental health initiatives.
Key Insights from the Analysis
The analysis highlighted several important findings:
- Drivers of Burnout: Long working hours and elevated burnout-related search activity were prevalent in states with higher burnout scores.
- Indicators of Stress: States like Wyoming and Vermont exhibited a correlation between high “work stress” search interest and prolonged work hours.
- Healthy Work Practices: States with lower burnout scores tended to have shorter workweeks and demonstrated reduced interest in burnout-related searches, indicating more balanced workplace environments.
Strategies for Mitigating Burnout
Businesses and policymakers are urged to prioritize employee well-being, as taking proactive measures can reduce stress levels, enhance productivity, and improve employee retention. For states maintaining lower burnout levels, continuing to implement practices that support healthy work environments is essential for ensuring sustained workplace stability.
