New research by Robert Walters reveals that 70% of UK professionals struggle to fully disconnect from work, with 76% frequently checking emails or messages outside work hours. This “always-on” culture is further intensified by hybrid working and tech platforms like Teams and Slack, which blur the line between work and personal time. Resulting issues include sleep disruption, increased stress, and a drop in productivity and engagement. Experts urge employers to counteract these effects by setting boundaries, adjusting workloads, and providing wellness support to prevent burnout.
- 67% of professionals feel increased pressure from employers to stay available beyond work hours, leading many to habitually check messages and calls after hours.
- Nearly 30% of employees report sleep disruption, while over a third experience stress and anxiety due to challenges in switching off from work.
- Experts recommend realistic deadlines, wellness initiatives, and limits on out-of-hours contact to reduce employee burnout and establish healthier work-life boundaries.
