Burnout to Balance Part 2
Mrs. Francis, a colleague and friend of Alita, noticed the toll that stress was taking on her. Knowing how fun and lively Alita had always been, she decided it was time to have a word with her.
On a Monday morning during lunch break, Mrs. Francis gently pulled Alita out of her seat and led her to the staff lunchroom. Once they were seated, she began by asking Alita how much sleep she was getting and how she had been coping with Mr. Aliu and his tantrums. Unable to hold back her emotions any longer, Alita burst into tears. She explained how sleep-deprived she felt and how much headache Mr. Aliu had been causing her.
Feeling a deep sense of compassion for her friend, Mrs. Francis advised Alita to approach the CEO and voice her complaints. She suggested that Alita explain her job description to both the CEO and Mr. Aliu to clarify her responsibilities and avoid taking on unnecessary work in the future.
Afterward, Mrs. Francis encouraged Alita to visit a therapist to establish a routine that would help her return to her usual self. She emphasized the importance of mental health, not just for Alita but for society as a whole, reminding her never to take it lightly for any reason. Mrs. Francis stressed that no one should jeopardize their mental health for anyone—whether young or old, family or acquaintance.
Alita took Mrs. Francis’ advice to heart, meeting with the CEO to adjust her workload and seeking therapy. As her mental health improved, she realized many colleagues struggled similarly. Inspired by her experience, Alita became a passionate advocate for prioritizing well-being and seeking support in the workplace. Her efforts raised awareness across the company, leading to the implementation of mental health-friendly policies that benefited everyone.
Do you find yourself facing challenges similar to Alita’s? Remember, you don’t have to endure it alone. While it may feel daunting to address concerns like a heavy workload with your boss, it’s important to recognize that advocating for better working conditions is your right, not a privilege.
Speak up, not just for yourself but for others who may be struggling silently. Together, we can create a healthier and more supportive work environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
