Workplace stress has become a significant and growing concern for UK adults, with nearly a third of workers feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of their jobs, according to a new survey.
The report conducted by HR software provider Ciphr polling over 2,000 UK adults, reveals that 30% of people cite work as a major source of stress, while over a quarter (28%) struggle with the demands of their workload. Amid ongoing economic uncertainty and the lasting effects of the pandemic, more UK adults are finding it difficult to strike a healthy balance between their professional and personal lives. Stress-related to work now ranks among the top concerns for people, alongside financial worries, health, and family issues.
RISING JOB-RELATED ANXIETY
The survey highlights a worrying increase in workplace stress since 2021, when 79% of UK adults reported feeling stressed at least once a month. Today, that number has risen to 86%, with one in nine adults (11%) experiencing stress every day. Work is no longer just a source of income for many – it has become a source of significant mental and emotional strain.
“Unrealistic workloads, time pressures, and toxic workplace cultures are key triggers for stress in the modern workforce,” says Claire Williams, Chief People and Operations Officer at Ciphr. “The demands of the job are affecting not only people’s productivity but their overall health and happiness.”
WORK-RELATED STRESS
For many, work-related stress extends beyond the confines of office hours. The survey found that 18% of respondents struggle with stress caused by their bosses, while 16% report feeling anxious about their job security. A similar percentage say they are affected by poor workplace culture, unhelpful colleagues, and long working hours.
Despite the rise of hybrid and remote working arrangements, the daily commute remains a source of stress for 15% of people. This suggests that, while some elements of work have changed post-pandemic, many traditional stressors persist.
IMPACT ON WOMEN & CAREGIVERS
The impact of workplace stress is particularly pronounced among women and those with caregiving responsibilities. The data shows that 18% of carers – those looking after elderly or disabled relatives – report daily stress, with many juggling both professional and personal duties.
Meanwhile, women experience more stress than men in general, facing an average of 11.7 days of stress per month compared to men’s 8.7 days. Women are also more likely to report feeling stressed every day (14% versus 9% of men).
WORK-RELATED STRESS COSTS
The findings underscore the broader implications of workplace stress. Unrealistic deadlines, overbearing management, and a lack of support can lead to burnout, reduced job satisfaction, and even physical health problems. Chronic stress not only affects an individual’s performance but also costs businesses through absenteeism, lower productivity, and higher turnover rates.
Workplace stress is also deeply intertwined with personal stressors, such as financial worries (38%) and health concerns (32%), which are exacerbated when employees feel overworked or undervalued. The survey suggests that the cycle of stress between work and personal life is becoming harder to break, particularly for those already under financial strain.
HOW EMPLOYERS CAN SUPPORT STAFF
As the report illustrates, the onus is on employers to recognise the warning signs and take proactive measures to alleviate workplace stress. This can range from offering more flexible working arrangements to reducing workloads and fostering a supportive, collaborative work environment.
Claire Williams warns that ignoring stress in the workplace is not an option. “Employers need to work with their teams to find solutions before stress turns into a bigger issue – for both the individual and the wider business. Providing mental health support, encouraging open communication, and rethinking workloads can go a long way toward improving employee wellbeing.”
The survey paints a clear picture: workplace stress is now a leading cause of anxiety for millions of UK adults, and the pressures are only mounting. As companies navigate an increasingly competitive and fast-paced landscape, they must take a more active role in supporting their employees’ mental health. By addressing the root causes of work-related stress, employers can not only improve their workforce’s well-being but also enhance productivity and morale.
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