“85% of Singapore employees expect to experience burnout at work this year, with 1 in 2 Singaporeans intending to leave their jobs in the next 6 to 12 months” 

“78% of Singapore employees feel burnt out at work... 80% of employees force themselves to work even when unwell”

With such a large degree of distress at work, employees often still express hesitation in taking up the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). A larger majority of distressed employees eventually don’t book an appointment for counselling even despite much consideration and inclination to. These who do not accept mental health support persist with unmanageable prolonged stress, which then results in a state of burnout.

Burnout may present as physical tension and pains, feeling exhausted, feeling overwhelmed and procrastinating, and increased cynicism and frustrations. Workplace burnout not only affects work performance and personal mood state, it almost always spills over into personal life, thus worsening one’s relationship with loved ones.

For clients who took up the courage to seek support, one of the first things they often ask when entering the therapy room is “would my company know about the issues I share with you?”.  

The answer: Client-Therapist confidentiality would be maintained, and client’s consent would be needed to disclose information. In other words, information that you share during therapy sessions will not be shared.

However, there are limits of confidentiality in which information would be disclosed under some circumstances. For examples, when compelled by law or court order, or if there is risk of harm to the self or others. Pertaining to the EAP, human resources would receive a de-identified anonymized report reflecting collated data of types of presenting concerns (e.g. anxiety / mood / stress).  

Feeling slightly more assured but still having hesitations?

Have a think: If someone you love shared about their emotional or mental health distress with you, would you encourage them to accept readily available professional support?

May I gently and strongly encourage you to use that kindness towards others on your own emotional and mental well-being. After all, you matter.

Kirsty Png
Counselling Psychologist
APSY | AKIDS