Unplug and Recharge: Mental Health in the Tech Industry

Don’t let your tech dreams turn into burnout! During Mental Health Week, let’s first address the importance of prioritising your wellbeing, as you start your career in the tech industry.

There’s no denying the tech industry’s transformative power. It fuelled innovation, revolutionised our lives, and opened doors to exciting career paths. Despite this, it does come with its own set of challenges. The tech workforce is often considered one of the most demanding environments. While the rewards can be significant, this pressure can take a toll on mental health for tech workers.

By addressing mental health in the tech industry The Burnout Index surveyed over 32,000 tech professionals globally and found:  

• 62% of tech professionals feel physically and emotionally drained due to the demands of their job.   
• 69% of women and 56% of men feel run down after a workday. 
• 2 in 5 of the workers show a high risk of burnout with 42% of them considering quitting their role.

While a UK study by the BIMA Tech Inclusion & Diversity  identifies the need for urgent areas of improvement in the tech workplace for diversity and inclusion:

• Stress levels are significantly higher than the national average, with 66% of respondents reporting struggles.
• 52% of respondents have experienced anxiety or depression.
• 22% of respondents feel their career progression has been hindered, with this number rising to 35% for women.
• A substantial portion of ethnic minorities report experiencing discrimination.

1. Signs in the workplace

Long hours

Whether you’re a 9-5, an early bird, or night owl. You might find yourself working long hours to make up the time you feel you’ve lost. Take short breaks throughout the day, even a walk can significantly refresh your mind, and improve focus. Eventually leading to reduced hours playing “catch up”.

Tight deadlines

The tech industry thrives on innovation and perfection, this can often lead to tight deadlines in a high-pressure work environment. By proactively planning your work, prioritise tasks effectively, and update your manager on your progress. You can open new doors for delegation and collaboration to simultaneously reduce your workload simultaneously.

Heavy workloads

Furthermore, Heavy workloads and larger projects that require months of effort and exceeding expectations can leave you feeling overwhelmed and dreading work. Don’t hesitate to talk to your manager, they can help by implementing strategies like time blocking, which involves scheduling dedicated time slots for specific tasks. This is also to clarify who’s working on what and assess colleague availability. In extreme cases, advocating for additional support through a new hire could alleviate the pressure and prevent burnout.

2. What could be the cause?

The signs we discussed can stem from several factors:

Digital Skills Gap

The digital skill gap is a growing challenge, new technology is emerging so quickly that many workers struggle to keep pace. This problem leads to a shortage of people with the expertise to utilise these advancements. Here at Netcom Training, we offer technical courses designed to address this gap, empowering tech professionals to thrive in the digital space, giving more people the opportunity to have a successful career.

Imposter Syndrome

Tech workers are susceptible to impostor syndrome due to the ever-evolving nature of the industry. This feeling of inadequacy and self-doubt, despite evidence of success, can make anyone feel like they’re falling behind. Take the time to reflect on your accomplishments, avoid comparing yourself to others, focus on your progress, and not perfection.

3. How can tech companies support?

Alarming evidence suggests that tech company work environments are contributing to employee mental health struggles. The high pressure and demanding nature of tech jobs are likely causing significant stress, anxiety, and depression among workers. It is your employers responsibility to ensure their team has the time, assistance and resources to not only help you succeed, but to feel like a valued member of the team.

Once your company is aware of the causes of stress, the following strategies can help alleviate this impact:

Diversity and Inclusion – To foster innovation and generate a wider range of perspectives. This can lead to a more collaborative and supportive work environment.

Recognition – Having regular check-ins to offer support and address any concerns.

Wellbeing Support – Promote physical and mental wellbeing.

Flexible working – To work remotely or adjust schedules can significantly improve work-life balance.

Remember, unplug and recharge! Mental health challenges affect people across all industries. This week is about creating more of a supportive and sustainable work environment in the tech world, both online and off.

If you have any concerns outside of work, please see our Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults Policy.