The risks of mental fatigue are multiplied in high-stakes professions that require full alertness, such as aviation, healthcare, and emergency services, where mental exhaustion impairs decision-making and slows reaction times, threatening the safety of both employees and the public. Despite the severity of the issue, diagnosing burnout still faces technical challenges, as traditional methods rely on subjective self-assessment surveys. Here, technology emerges as a promising solution, as wearable devices and digital platforms enable continuous monitoring of vital signs, sleep patterns, and stress levels, allowing for early intervention before the condition worsens. Employers bear a crucial responsibility in addressing this phenomenon by adopting policies that promote work-life balance and providing resources to support mental well-being. The consequences of burnout extend beyond mental health, affecting productivity and morale, which poses a direct threat to a nation's overall economic performance, whose growth relies on efficiency and innovation. Job burnout represents a significant economic burden, translating into increased absenteeism, higher healthcare costs, and greater employee turnover. Integrating technological advancements with a supportive organizational culture not only helps mitigate the effects of burnout but also paves the way for a healthier, more productive, and sustainable workforce. «The Straits Times»
