Understanding and addressing the rising stress levels in young workers to build a resilient and productive workforce.
The Mental Health UK's Burnout Report 2025 paints a concerning picture of workplace stress, especially among younger employees. Here are the critical points:
High Stress Levels Persist:A staggering 91% of workers still experience high or extreme stress levels.
Generational Divide Widens:18-24-year-olds are most likely to take time off due to stress-related mental health issues, with a worrying decline in their willingness to confide in managers.
Young Workers Need Support:This demographic benefits significantly from reasonable adjustments, mental health training and supportive management.
Healthcare Gaps Exacerbate Stress:Younger workers are disproportionately affected by NHS waiting times, leading to increased time off.
Cost of living crisis:Younger workers are more likely to experience high stress due to issues such as having to regularly work unpaid overtime which was experienced by almost half of the participants.
Work-life balance:Just one-third of 18-24-year-olds agreeing with the statement that they could switch off from work when they needed to.
Culture of silence:One in five admitted their productivity or performance was impacted by high levels of pressure or stress but that they didn’t adjust their hours or take time off work, while nearly one in five chose not to disclose their high levels of pressure or stress.
Implement Reasonable Adjustments
The report highlights that young workers significantly benefit from reasonable adjustments. Offering flexible working hours, remote work options or adjusted workloads can demonstrate a genuine understanding and willingness to accommodate individual needs. By doing so, you not only improve work-life balance but also show that you value your employees' well-being. This approach can lead to increased job satisfaction and reduced turnover rates, ultimately benefiting your organisation.
Invest in Mental Health Training
Equipping managers and employees with the skills to recognise and address stress and burnout is crucial. Providing workshops, online resources and access to mental health professionals can empower individuals to take care of their well-being proactively. This proactive training creates a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fear of judgment. As a result, you foster a culture of empathy and understanding, which is essential for building a resilient workforce.
Foster Open Communication
Rebuilding trust by encouraging open conversations about stress and mental health is vital. Conducting regular check-ins and implementing feedback mechanisms can help identify issues early, preventing them from escalating into full-blown burnout. Promoting a culture of empathy where employees feel heard and valued is key. This not only improves employee well-being but also enhances your organisation's reputation as a caring and supportive employer, which can attract and retain top talent in a competitive job market.
The Burnout Report 2025 is a wake-up call for UK businesses. At Westray Recruitment Group, we see firsthand the impact of workplace stress on employee well-being and productivity. By understanding the unique challenges faced by younger workers and taking proactive steps to address them, businesses can create a more resilient, engaged and productive workforce. It’s not just about doing what’s right, it’s about investing in the future success of your organisation.
Reach out to Westray Recruitment Group today to discuss how we can help you build a mentally healthy workplace that attracts and retains top talent.
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