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Nearly half (46 per cent) of U.S. employees say they’re feeling burned out from their jobs, down slightly from 49 per cent in 2022, according to a new survey by Eagle Hill Consulting.

The survey, which polled more than 1,000 workers, found women (58 per cent) and younger employees (51 per cent) were more likely to report burnout. Nearly two-thirds (62 per cent) of workers said they’re comfortable telling their manager they feel burned out.

When asked about the main causes of burnout, respondents cited workload (53 per cent), staffing shortages (44 per cent) work-life balance (41 per cent), a lack of communication and support (39 per cent) and time pressures (38 per cent).

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Nearly three-quarters (71 per cent) of workers said a four-day workweek would alleviate stress, followed by increased flexibility (66 per cent), decreased workload (65 per cent), better health and wellness benefits (60 per cent), the ability to work from home (58 per cent), reduced administrative burdens (55 per cent), more onsite amenities (51 per cent) and the ability to relocate or work from multiple locations (41 per cent).

“While worker stress levels are trending downward, employers should not be complacent in addressing employee burnout,” said Melissa Jezior, president and chief executive officer at Eagle Hill Consulting, in a press release. “Still, nearly half of the workforce reports burnout and that is far too high for organizations that seek optimal performance and retention of their top talent. When employees are tired and stressed, you can bet they’ll either underperform or look for another job.”

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