# Two in five young workers took time off due to burnout in last year, study shows

By Ruth Wilkinson — 2026-01-16

Ruth Wilkinson, head of policy and public affairs at the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), said: “These findings underline just how serious stress has become in workplaces, with significant consequences for workers, businesses and society.

“Employers need to take a proactive approach by identifying and managing psychosocial hazards in the same way they would any other health and safety risk.

“This starts with prevention. Employers should embed psychosocial risk management into their health and safety systems, backed by strong leadership and clear communication.

“Creating a culture where staff feel psychologically safe and able to raise concerns without fear of stigma is essential.

“Managers play a vital role in spotting early signs of stress, so training and support for them is critical.

“Businesses should also review work demands and job design and ask themselves how effectively they are engaging with their people.”

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