Research finds work is a leading cause of stress for UK employees, surpassed only by sleep and financial worries.
- Over two-thirds of surveyed employees identify work as a major stress contributor.
- Workload pressures and inflexible hours are significant stress triggers for many.
- Demographic disparities exist, with women reporting higher stress levels than men across most indicators.
- Stress levels vary significantly across industries, affecting employees’ wellbeing and productivity.
According to Ciphr’s latest research, work is ranked as the third biggest cause of stress for UK employees, coming after sleep deprivation and financial anxieties. Over two-thirds of the 1,238 surveyed employees identified work factors contributing significantly to their stress levels. The study highlights how deeply ingrained professional pressures impact modern work life.
Work in general and workload pressures are major sources of stress, affecting 37% and 35% of employees, respectively. Nearly one in four employees struggle with long, inflexible working hours, compounding their stress. A significant portion also reports stress related to bosses, workplace culture, and colleague interactions, each adding layers of complexity to workplace dynamics.
Remote and hybrid working patterns have failed to mitigate stress from commuting, affecting 19% of workers, while about 17% face anxiety over job security. The constant expectation to respond to emails and messages is another critical stressor, affecting 16% of those surveyed.
Gender disparities in stress are notably pronounced. The survey reveals that women frequently experience higher stress levels than men. Predominant stressors among women include fatigue, financial concerns, and workload, further aggravated by global events, domestic responsibilities, and workplace strain. Men, on the other hand, report more stress from work hours and commuting.
The survey underscores that not all industries are equal in terms of stress impact. Employees in hospitality and events endure stress most frequently, averaging 15.6 days per month. Conversely, those in engineering and manufacturing report feeling stressed for only 7.3 days monthly. Such disparities illuminate the varying degrees of occupational stress across different sectors.
Ciphr’s Chief People and Operations Officer, Claire Williams, emphasises the need for employers to recognise work-related stress as a significant factor affecting employees’ lives. She advocates for a culture prioritising employee wellbeing, stating that stress can lead to reduced productivity and increased turnover if not addressed. Employers are encouraged to listen to workforce concerns about workloads and working hours actively.
The study reveals how work-related stress is a pervasive issue requiring urgent attention from employers to foster healthier workplace environments.
