Lululemon 2024 Global Wellbeing Report Finds Burnout is On the Rise
The report identifies a vicious cycle where increased pressure to be “well” contributes to burnout, which is fueled by societal expectations, conflicting wellness advice, and loneliness
Is wellness burnout leaving people worse off? The Lululemon 2024 Global Wellbeing Report identifies a vicious cycle where increased pressure to be “well” is contributing to physical, mental, or social exhaustion. Conducted by Edelman Data & Intelligence (DXI) across 15 global markets and 16,000 respondents, the report highlights major stressors contributing to the crisis.
Lululemon’s report identifies a vicious cycle where increased pressure to maintain wellbeing contributes to burnout, which, in turn, makes it harder for people to improve their wellbeing. Those feeling the most pressure are 55% more likely to experience burnout, and those with burnout are 43% more likely to feel heightened pressure to be well.
Three key stressors are fueling wellness burnout. First, unrealistic societal expectations: 61% of respondents reported feeling overwhelmed by pressure to appear well. Second, 53% of respondents were confused by the different sources of wellness-related information, much of which conflicted. Third, a staggering 89% of those citing burnout identified loneliness as a key factor contributing to their exhaustion.
Markets feeling the highest levels of burnout—dubbed “wellbeing burnout zones”—include Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Malaysia, and the United States. These regions report increased societal pressure (+25%), conflicting information (+23%), and feelings of isolation (+35%).
So, how can fitness and wellness professionals help prevent consumer burnout? Incorporating live workouts provides a built-in break from social media. Those who take regular social media breaks report a 9% higher wellbeing score. Those who set boundaries in their lives experience a 13% improvement.
Human connection, also brought about by live workouts or wellness experiences, can also contribute to improved metrics. Those who feel connected to their communities are 28% more likely to feel a sense of purpose and are 34% less likely to experience burnout.
The 2024 Global Wellbeing Report delivers an important message to the industry: while wellness is receiving more attention than ever, excessive pressure can bring about more harm than good. Combating a perfectionist mindset and implementing small, community-focused changes can go a long way toward preventing burnout.