According to the latest TELUS Health Index, a significant portion of UK workers are feeling mentally and physically drained by the end of the day.
- 44% of UK employees report exhaustion due to excessive workload, highlighting a trend of burnout in the workplace.
- Despite concerns about burnout, 31% of workers see AI positively impacting their industry, with hopes of easing workloads.
- The younger workforce is significantly more open to using AI tools to enhance skills, with managers and parents leading in this trend.
- Awareness of Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) remains low, with 68% of workers unsure if such support is available to them.
The TELUS Health Mental Health Index has revealed that nearly half of the workforce in the United Kingdom is facing the consequences of burnout. Notably, 44% of employees feel a sense of exhaustion at the end of their workday, primarily citing overwhelming workloads as the root cause. This concern is not isolated to the UK alone, as the Index also examines other regions, including the United States and Europe.
Despite the pressing issue of burnout, there is an evolving perception surrounding technology’s role in the workplace. 31% of UK workers are optimistic about the potential of Artificial Intelligence to bring positive changes to their industry. Paula Allen, Global Leader of Research & Client Insights at TELUS Health, emphasizes the critical opportunity for organizations to engage employees with AI tools, facilitating a smoother adaptation to technological advancements.
There is a noticeable eagerness among the younger demographic to embrace AI, with individuals under 40 being notably more inclined to enhance their AI skills. This openness presents a unique opportunity for employers to foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning. Interestingly, managers and parents are nearly three times more likely to pursue AI skill upgrades compared to their non-managerial and non-parental counterparts.
However, the accessibility and awareness of support systems like Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) remain a significant concern. A staggering 68% of workers are unaware if such mental health support is available through their employers. This lack of awareness correlates with notably lower mental health scores among these employees, compared to those who recognize the existence of an EAP.
Through the TELUS Mental Health Index, it is clear that regional mental health scores reflect varying degrees of strain and distress. The UK, with a mental health score of 64.6, is emblematic of the widespread concerns regarding workplace well-being. Scores vary globally, indicating the universal challenge of maintaining mental health in demanding work environments.
Burnout remains a critical issue in the UK’s workforce, demanding greater attention from employers and policy makers to safeguard employees’ well-being.
