Almost nine in 10 (88%) Britons are experiencing more burnout symptoms than usual, according to research by Cigna Healthcare.
Its 2023 Vitality study, which surveyed 10,800 respondents in the US, UK, Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, Kenya, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, China, Singapore, and the Hong Kong SAR, also found that half (49%) of respondents cited the ongoing cost-of-living crisis as the largest cause of stress, followed by personal finance (38%).
Meanwhile, 53% of stressed women reported that the greatest impact of stress is disrupted sleep patterns and tiredness, with one-fifth of UK respondents feeling more helpless, trapped and defeated than normal.
The study also highlighted that the gender pay gap is a significant issue for women, who are twice as likely as men to earn less than £1,500 per month. Half (52%) of women are in this pay bracket compared to 26% of men.
Additionally, the research found that women have lower vitality levels than men, scoring less for both emotional and financial vitality. In contrast, vitality in men is driven by greater financial security and emotional wellbeing, while married couples, those aged 60 and above and males display higher levels of vitality than those who are single or female.
Dr Stella George, chief medical officer at Cigna Healthcare, said: “Increased levels of stress and burnout will only have long-term effects, so steps must be taken to improve the mental wellbeing of women, and the nation as a whole. 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.”
Arjan Toor, chief executive officer at Cigna Healthcare, added: “We can no longer measure wellbeing using narrow health metrics such as diet, exercise, and disease alone. We must consider the bigger picture: intellectual and emotional stimulation, cultural and social connections, financial and physical security, and of course health. Work is a central part of people’s vitality and wellbeing, and it is, therefore, essential that every employer considers this as part of their workplace health plan.”