09.10.2026

Over half of UK professionals report workplace burnout as workload pressures mount

Ahead of World Mental Health Day (10 October), new research from talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half reveals that workplace burnout remains a significant issue for many UK professionals.

The study found that 55 per cent of workers feel burnt out at work, placing the UK above the 48 per cent average across the nine markets surveyed.

When asked what was driving their burnout, 54 per cent of workers cited a heavier workload due to understaffing, while 39 per cent reported lower team morale after restructuring or labour reductions. A further 39 per cent reported feeling stuck in their career.

UK among the most affected markets surveyed

According to the data, the UK recorded the fourth-highest level of reported burnout among the countries included in the research, behind Canada (62 per cent), the United States (59 per cent) and Brazil (59 per cent).

The findings highlight the extent to which sustained workplace pressures continue to affect employees. While burnout levels vary internationally, the research suggests that a significant proportion of the UK workforce is experiencing high levels of strain at work.

Matt Weston, Senior Managing Director, UK & Ireland at Robert Half, commented: “Burnout is clearly no longer an issue affecting a small group of employees. When more than half of professionals say they’re experiencing it, employers recognise it as a workforce issue with implications for productivity, retention and long-term business performance.

"Employers need to recognise that addressing burnout isn't simply about offering support when people reach a crisis point, but taking a proactive approach. Creating environments where workloads are manageable, career development remains visible, and employees feel equipped to perform at their best over the long term requires regularly assessing resources, expectations and culture, and adjusting when needed.

"World Mental Health Day provides an opportunity to reflect on whether those foundations are in place, because addressing burnout requires more than wellbeing initiatives alone. Businesses also need to consider how work is structured, whether teams have sufficient support and resources, and how employees can sustainably manage increasing demands."

International comparisons

Percentage of professionals who feel burnt out at work

- Canada: 62 per cent
- United States: 59 per cent
- Brazil: 59 per cent
- United Kingdom: 55 per cent
- Netherlands: 45 per cent
- Germany: 43 per cent
- Belgium: 42 per cent
- Switzerland: 38 per cent
- France: 32 per cent

What employers can do

Considering the findings, Robert Half recommends that employers:

- Regularly assess whether workforce capacity aligns with business demands
- Help employees prioritise workloads and set realistic expectations
- Maintain ongoing conversations around workload, wellbeing and career development
- Ensure managers are equipped to identify and address signs of employee burnout
- Provide additional support during periods of organisational change
- Consider permanent and project-based staffing solutions to support teams during periods of increased demand

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