Nearly 12 million workers experienced burnout in the past year, research shows

New research from Avilio revealed that burnout continues to affect a significant proportion of the UK workforce, with 36% of survey respondents saying they experienced burnout in the last year.

Applied to the wider working population, this equates to around 11.9 million workers.

The independent, nationally representative survey of 1,261 UK workers defined burnout as extreme and persistent stress resulting in physical, mental and emotional exhaustion.

The findings suggested that stress is affecting employees’ ability to perform their roles, with 22% reporting they had taken time off due to stress.

Among managers, 46% said their job is their main source of stress and anxiety.

The research also highlighted implications for labour market stability.

Nearly a quarter (24%) of workers said they are actively looking for a new job, while 29% intended to change roles by the end of 2026, creating potential turnover and recruitment challenges for employers.

This is the second consecutive year Avilio has surveyed UK workers on stress levels, with results showing little change from 2024.