Almost nine out of 10 employees are showing signs of ‘burnout’ according to a new survey, which shows the extent of mental health problems in the workplace.
Research by Cigna Healthcare found high levels of poor mental health among employees of all ages. Overall it found 88 per cent showing symptoms of burnout, with almost eight out 10 workers (78 per cent) reporting feeling stressed.
The figures indicate that many employers are prioritising productivity over staff mental health, with more than half of respondents having to work outside traditional hours, and three quarters saying they have worked while unwell.
In total more than half (55 per cent) report feeling constantly connected to work and unable to switch off.
When looking at the causes of stress and poor mental health, the survey found ‘too much work’ falls in the top five causes of stress, cited by 24 per cent of respondents. Thisplaced it behind the cost of living (49 per cent), personal finances (38 per cent) and uncertainty about the future (31 per cent).
Cigna Healthcare is calling for employers to do more to address this situation. It comes as a report by the Resolution Foundation this week found that younger workers were more likely to be absent from work due to poor mental health than older employees.
Cigna says that action from employers can make a difference. In its survey 53 per cent of respondents said an employer focus on health and wellbeing creates a more positive work environment and 51 per cent said this leads to better productivity.
Commenting on these figures Cigna Healthcare chief medical officer Dr Stella George says: “These are dangerous levels of stress and burnout – people need to understand that help is out there. Importantly, employers can offer those suffering from burnout much needed support, from recognising the warning signs, understanding the effects, and helping to manage and reduce burnout within teams.”
