The Hidden Costs of Burnout and Turnover: Why Investing in Wellness is a Must

It’s becoming increasingly clear in today's workplace that employees are not just numbers or productivity metrics—they’re people with lives, challenges, and needs that extend far beyond their job descriptions.

The latest statistics show that 38.1% of employees in Belgium reported experiencing burnout in 2023, up from 34.7% in 2021. But behind these statistics are real people—people who are struggling to keep up, feeling overwhelmed, and often on the verge of leaving their jobs.

For years, I found myself struggling with my focus and energy levels at work, particularly around my menstrual cycle. There were days when I was completely distracted by the fear of bleeding through my clothes or the overwhelming fatigue that seemed to sap my ability to concentrate. I would show up to work, but my mind was elsewhere, clouded by physical discomfort and the stress of pretending everything was fine.

These experiences weren’t isolated—they were part of a pattern linked to my menstrual cycle. And it’s not just me. Many women face these challenges, from mild discomfort to severe conditions like PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder), which can lead to extreme emotional and physical symptoms, including depression and even suicidal thoughts.

The experience of women in the workplace varies widely, depending on how their bodies respond to their menstrual cycles. Some women manage their cycles with the pill, which can help regulate symptoms but also disconnect them from their natural rhythms. On the other end of the spectrum are women with PMDD, who may experience debilitating symptoms that severely impact their ability to function.

In between are countless women who, like me, have struggled with the ups and downs of their cycles, often without fully understanding what’s happening or how to manage it. This lack of understanding can lead to doubts about one’s abilities, missed opportunities, and even the decision to avoid certain careers or leadership roles altogether.

When women decide to leave their jobs because they feel they can't handle the demands of work due to these cyclical challenges, the impact is far-reaching. The cost of replacing an employee can be staggering—between €20,000 and twice the employee’s annual salary, according to studies by Gallup and Harvard Business School. But beyond the financial cost, there’s the loss of talent, institutional knowledge, and the potential innovation that diverse perspectives bring to the table.

There’s also the issue of absenteeism and presenteeism—where employees are physically at work but mentally checked out. For women struggling with severe menstrual symptoms, even being present at work can be a challenge. Absenteeism and presenteeism aren’t just personal issues—they’re productivity issues that can cost companies billions annually.

The impact of these challenges on women’s careers is profound. In Belgium, the employment rate for women aged 20-64 is 68.5%, compared to 75.9% for men. This gap isn’t just about employment; it’s about the opportunities, support, and understanding that women need to thrive in the workplace.

Many women may opt out of high-pressure roles, leadership positions, or STEM fields because they believe their bodies’ natural cycles make them less capable of handling the demands. But this perception is based on a lack of understanding about how to work with their bodies, not against them.

Wellness programs that address these specific challenges are not just a nice-to-have—they’re essential. When companies invest in tools and programs that help women understand and manage their cycles, they’re not just reducing costs; they’re creating an environment where all employees can bring their full potential to work.

For me, understanding the connection between my cycle and my work performance was a game-changer. It allowed me to stop doubting myself and start working with my natural rhythms. This is the kind of support that could make all the difference for women across the spectrum, from those managing mild symptoms to those dealing with severe PMDD.

Investing in wellness tools is about more than just ROI on paper—it’s about the return on investment in people. It’s about recognizing that women are not just resources to be managed but individuals to be supported. By creating a work environment that prioritizes well-being, companies can not only reduce turnover and improve productivity but also foster a culture where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Wellness isn’t just a strategy—it’s a commitment to the people who make up the heart of any organization. It’s about building a future where work enhances life, rather than drains it, and where every employee can find their own balance and purpose