Mesa-based Lohman Company, which has instituted a 2,300-maximum work hour limit per year, is taking part in a growing trend in the accounting industry to offer mental health breaks. Marty says, “The breaks actually allow me to service my clients better. My stress level is down and my mind is clear.”

Alyssa Mandel, a licensed psychotherapist and founder of The Mandel Center of Arizona, says it’s important for people to focus on things other than work. “Employers must recognize that the long-term productivity of their employees is in large part dependent upon their employees achieving an appropriate balance between career and personal life. Vacation time assists in that endeavor by furnishing employees with an opportunity to rest, spend time with their families and explore personal hobbies and activities,” she says.

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, accounting is the top career for recent grads, with an average starting salary of more than $46,000. Yet, the high demand for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) is contributing to burnout in the industry.

“The last few years have been very busy for the CPA profession,” says Cindie Hubiak, president and CEO of the Arizona Society of CPAs. “New regulations require additional work by CPAs. Increasingly, people are using CPA services more, as they know the value CPAs provide. Many CPAs at all levels find it challenging to create a work/life balance.”

Accounting firms like Lohman Company are seeking work/life balance in order to retain and attract qualified, experienced employees. Lohman says, “Mental health breaks are essential to work/life balance—not just during the off season—but the busy season, too.”

“Busy season” is notorious in the accounting industry. From January to April 15, accountants of all levels are faced with 14 or 15 hour work days as the rest of us scramble to get our taxes in on time. Each March, at the height of “busy season,” Lohman Company treats its employees to a surprise outing during the work week. This year, co-workers relieved their stress at 45 mph, dashing around the track at F1 Race Factory in Phoenix.

Mandel says employers who promote this interaction, in addition to time off, can help prevent work fatigue. “During that down-time, the brain can subconsciously process information and subsequently problem-solve more efficiently,” she says. “There is much evidence to show that people are significantly more effective learners after a good night's sleep or even a cat-nap.”

Employers interested in combating workplace burnout can have a workplace consultant, such as a psychotherapist, hold trainings with workers and management about how to communicate honestly and effectively. Additionally, employers can provide access to mental health services, such as an Employee Assistance Program, to assist workers whose stress may adversely affect their work performance and well being. To locate an EAP provider, visit the Employee Assistance Professionals Association online.

www.lohmancompany.com
www.themandelcenter.com
www.eapassn.org