Burnout is more than just temporary fatigue or the need for a break. It’s a prolonged state of work-related stress that can lead to deep exhaustion, frustration, and a sense of hopelessness, affecting employees’ personal and professional lives. Recognizing the impact of this issue, the Chamber’s Live Better Committee hosted a Coffee & Learn event focused on helping local businesses address and prevent employee burnout.
The seminar, “Employee Burnout & Resilience,” featured two speakers:
- Dr. Matthew Bernard, Chief Medical Officer of Covington Trace ER & Hospital, and
- Elizabeth Garland, Northshore Resource Navigator for the United Way of Southeast Louisiana.
Dr. Bernard, a board-certified emergency physician, shared practical and cost-effective strategies for fostering a supportive work environment. He emphasized the importance of “moments that matter” in boosting morale and job satisfaction. Examples included thoughtful gestures such as celebrating birthdays with surprises, providing homemade meals, assisting with car repairs, and participating in community events as a team. Dr. Bernard noted that prioritizing employees’ well-being leads to higher job satisfaction and improved patient care.
Elizabeth Garland offered insights from her background as a social worker, focusing on techniques to manage stress and refocus the mind during challenging times. She highlighted the power of positive thinking and provided practical tips like using affirmations and listening to uplifting music to help employees recenter themselves during periods of high stress.
The event, hosted by Covington Trace ER & Hospital, provided attendees with actionable strategies to foster resilience, enhance workplace morale and combat burnout within their organizations.
This Coffee & Learn exemplified the Chamber’s commitment to supporting local businesses by addressing critical workplace challenges and equipping leaders with tools to promote healthier, more productive environments.