About 82% of employees are at risk of burnout this year—but only half of employers design work with well-being in mind

A burnout epidemic is hitting offices across the world, and despite increased awareness about the issue, a majority of employers aren’t establishing a work culture that prioritizes employee well-being, according to a new survey.

More than eight out of 10 employees are at risk of burnout this year, according to the 2024 Global Talent Trends report published by Mercer, an HR consulting firm. About 43% of that group cited financial strain as a contributing factor, while 40% cited exhaustion, and 37% said they were struggling with an excessive workload. 

“We are heading in the wrong direction, especially in the U.S.,” says Kate Bravery, knowledge and insights global leader for Mercer. “What we’re doing today is not having a material impact on physical or mental health. And that’s really worrying.”

But there seems to be a disconnect between the detrimental effects of burnout—like lower productivity and engagement—and how much bosses view it as an issue affecting their companies. Less than half of employers design work with well-being in mind, according to the survey, and less than a third of employers believe that failing to invest in reducing employee burnout will expose them to considerable risk this year. 

“Everybody has been looking at mental health, and physical health, and well-being. It’s been such a focus,” says Bravery. “And I think the results are saying is we are not moving the needle on that.”

Emma Burleigh
[email protected]
@EmmaBurleigh1

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