Outplacement after burnout

A burnout not only has an impact on your health, but often also on your career.
Sometimes returning to the old position or employer is no longer feasible — and you don't have to.
One outplacement process after burnout whether second track reintegration helps to take the step towards appropriate work with guidance, structure and renewed self-confidence.

Burnout and work: a growing problem

Every year, camps are more than one million Dutch people with burnout symptoms. Work stress is the cause of more than a third of all absenteeism.
Behind these figures, there is often the same pattern: long-term overload, little autonomy and a lack of balance between work and recovery.

Many people recovering from burnout find that their work environment no longer matches who they are today. A different position or even a new employer is often the best step.

When do you choose outplacement after a burnout?

One outplacement process is intended for employees who are unable or unwilling to return to their old work.
This may be because the position was too burdensome, or because there are structural tensions in the organization.
In such a case, it is wise to work with a career coach to find out which direction suits you.

During the process, the focus is on:

• Rebuilding trust and energy
• Insight into your talents, values and limits
• Orientation to new work or other sectors
• Assistance with application and reentry

Learn more about our approach at Outplacement.

Difference between outplacement and second track in case of burnout

Sometimes a process via the employer runs under the Gatekeeper Improvement Act.
When returning to your own organization is no longer possible, a second track reintegration process mandatory.
This involves looking for suitable work with another employer — similar to outplacement, but with a legal framework.

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The four phases of recovery and reintegration

A successful return to work after a burnout often involves four steps:

1. Physical recovery

First, rest is crucial. Restoring sleep, energy and focus are the basis.
A coach helps you to recognize where your limits lie and how to monitor them.

2. Mental recovery

Building self-confidence is often the hardest part.
Through conversations, reflection and practical exercises, you will work on realistic self-esteem and balance.

3. Construction phase

You learn how to deal with workload and responsibility again.
In this phase, career guidance be valuable in finding out which work suits you.
Read more about Career coaching.

4. Reorientation and return to work

In consultation with the employer or via a second track process, the return to appropriate work follows.
The coach monitors pace and limits to prevent relapse.
More information about the process can be found at Track 2 route.

How do you prevent a relapse?

Around one out of four people who reintegrate after a burnout gets complaints again.
Key factors that lower that risk:

• Realistic structure of hours
• Good coordination with the manager or new employer
• Coaching focused on self-care, assertiveness and boundaries
• Work that matches personal values and energy sources

Outplacement after burnout: the benefits

A well-supervised outplacement process not only helps you find new work, but also with sustainable recovery.

Benefits at a glance:

• Tailored personal guidance
• Insight into causes of burnout
• Practical help with applying and returning
• Restoring self-confidence and motivation
• Sustainable work that really suits you

Frequently asked questions about outplacement in case of burnout

1. When does outplacement start after a burnout?
Once you've recovered enough to think about the future again. This is often after the medical recovery phase.

2. What is the difference between outplacement and second track guidance?
Outplacement is voluntary and focused on career change.
Second track guidance is required by law in the event of long-term illness. Read more about Second track route.

3. Does my employer pay the outplacement costs?
In many cases, yes, via the transition payment or agreements in the Settlement agreement.

4. Can I start a career path during a burnout?
Yes, provided that the focus is on recovery, not performance. Career coaching helps you find direction in this phase.

5. How long does an outplacement process take?
An average of 3 to 6 months, depending on recovery, goals and employability.

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