Work-related stress has become one of the most pressing workplace health issues of our time. As organisations adapt to evolving work models and increasing performance expectations, employees are experiencing unprecedented levels of stress, impacting wellbeing and business performance.
Recent data from the UK and global workplace surveys show that stress, anxiety, and depression linked to work are climbing, taking a toll on workers and organisations alike. These trends make understanding and addressing workplace stress a strategic imperative for employers in 2026.
• 964,000 workers in Great Britain reported work-related stress, depression, or anxiety in 2024/25. An increase of almost 25% on 2024 (HSE 2025).
• Stress-related conditions accounted for over 22 million working days lost (HSE 2025).
• Stress, anxiety, and depression represent over half of all work-related ill health cases (HSE 2025).
• Around 40% of employees globally report experiencing significant daily stress (Gallup, 2025).
Key contributing factors include excessive workloads, lack of role clarity, insufficient managerial support, digital overload, and job insecurity. Technology has blurred boundaries between work and personal life, while ongoing organisational change has increased uncertainty.
High stress levels increase burnout, absenteeism, presenteeism, staff turnover, and reduce morale and productivity. Businesses face higher costs, reduced performance, and reputational risks.
• Integrate stress into health and safety risk assessments
• Train managers to recognise and address stress early
• Review workloads and priorities regularly
• Encourage healthy work-life boundaries
• Increase employee autonomy and involvement
• Provide access to wellbeing and mental health support
• Foster a psychologically safe and supportive culture
Managing this is a business-critical responsibility. Employers who prioritise wellbeing create more resilient, productive, and engaged workplaces.
To find out more information or for support with managing this issue in your workplace, get in contact with our team of experts.
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