Photo by Alexei Maridashvili on Unsplash
More than half of U.S. workers say they’re experiencing burnout, and nearly the same number lack confidence that their employer cares about them and their well-being, according to an Oct. 18 report from Aflac.
Employee confidence in employer care has dropped significantly in recent years, from 59% in 2021 to 48% in 2023.
“Survey results on mental health and wellbeing in the workplace are alarming and continue to be challenging, but employers can face these challenges head-on and turn them into opportunities,” Jeri Hawthorne, senior vice president and chief human resources officer at Aflac Incorporated, said in a statement.
“Offering benefits that include mental health tools and resources, in addition to work-life balance perks, such as flexible work schedules, can help with employee satisfaction, retention and recruitment,” she said.
In surveys of 1,200 employers and 2,000 employees across the U.S., 57% of workers said they’re currently experiencing at least moderate levels of burnout. They named workplace stress — particularly heavy workloads — as the biggest stressor.
Among those who reported high levels of burnout, 89% also said they experienced other mental health challenges during the past year, including anxiety, depression and trouble with sleep.
Some workers reported higher levels of burnout than others. About 67% of Gen Z and 64% of millennial workers said they’re facing moderate-to-high levels of burnout. In addition, 75% of women reported burnout, along with 58% of men.
Employees want their employers to care about their well-being and provide resources to stay ahead of burnout, according to the report. However, employee confidence is waning, and many are considering other job opportunities, with 53% saying they’re somewhat likely to accept a position with lower pay but better benefits.
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