Poll shows extent of work-related stress

Is your job leaving you physically and mentally exhausted? Well, according to new research, you’re not alone. In fact, nearly half (48.5%) of Scottish professionals admit they’re on the brink of burnout, with more than two thirds (68.4%) saying work is the main contributor.

The study by Cv-library, which surveyed more than 2,000 UK professionals and was released just before Blue Monday (January 20), also reveals that work stress has resulted in 54.4% of Scots having negative thoughts and 51.5% having trouble sleeping and feeling exhausted.

Asked what causes them the most anxiety at work, respondents cited:

1. Pressure from their manager – 40%

2. Having to work long hours – 33.8%

3. An excessively high workload – 30.8%

4. Having to meet unrealistic targets – 30.8%

5. Working towards tight deadlines – 24.6%

Blue Monday is allegedly the most depressing day of the year and typically falls on the third Monday of January. According to research from holiday company Sky Travel, the Blue Monday equation takes into account debt, time since Christmas, weather conditions and failing New Year’s resolutions.

Lee Biggins, founder and CEO of Cv-library, said: “Burnout is a serious issue and while some people thrive on keeping busy, it shouldn’t get to the point where you’re taking work home with you, struggling to sleep or constantly feeling exhausted.

“If you’re having to work long hours or you’re feeling the pressure from a senior colleague, try to have an honest conversation with them. Plucking up the courage to raise your concerns can pay off in the long run and help to tackle the issue before it snowballs into a bigger problem.”

The study also looks at data for key Scottish cities and shows that 48.6% of workers in Glasgow and 25% of workers in Edinburgh have been on the brink of burnout. Professionals in both Glasgow (62.5%) and Edinburgh (86.7%) believe that work is the main reason for this.

Biggins added: “We all know how stressful work can be and sometimes it’s unavoidable. However, if you find that you’re constantly feeling worried, exhausted or up against it, maybe your job isn’t right and you need a change.

“The truth is, no matter how well paid or prosperous a job may be, if you’re working to tight deadlines and you’re under too much pressure, you’ll soon crack. There are plenty of opportunities in major cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow or Dundee where you can achieve a sustainable balance, so get looking!”

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by the exposure to consistent, severe stress. Some of the symptoms include a lack of energy, constant fatigue, reduced focus and productivity, poor decisionmaking, headaches and sleep disorders.

People with any of these symptoms should talk to a manager or a HR representative as soon as possible.

Don’t suffer in silence because of workplace stress.