New research has found that UK employees are experiencing higher levels of burnout and stress than their global counterparts.
The study from Atlassian, maker of collaboration tools, notes the pressure of being constantly contactable through real-time communication tools and tied to rigid working schedules.
The survey of 1,000 UK workers revealed that almost three-quarters (73%) feel overwhelmed by the volume of notifications and real-time communication demands they receive each day, a figure 11% higher than the global average. In addition, 70% report feeling work-related stress and nearly half (49%) regularly experience burnout.
Despite shifts towards flexible working, the UK remains largely bound to traditional structures. Only one in three workers said they have full control over their working hours, while 58% continue to follow mostly fixed schedules. Atlassian’s research suggests that this lack of flexibility contributes to rising stress levels and limits opportunities for deeper, focused work.
A growing number of employees are seeking more time and autonomy to think, create and recharge. According to the findings, one in three UK respondents (34%) spend no more than two hours a day on focused work, while one in five (20%) devote four or more hours each day to responding to instant messages such as Slack notifications. A further 10% spend seven or more hours each week in meetings, leaving limited space for concentrated effort.
Limited Flexibility Restricting Productivity
The study indicates that rigid working patterns continue to affect productivity and wellbeing across UK workplaces. With fixed hours still the norm for a majority of employees, opportunities for deep work and creative thinking remain scarce. The findings suggest that employers may need to reassess how work is structured to allow greater autonomy and focus time.
Workers with more control over their schedules appear better able to manage stress and maintain focus throughout the day. The research implies that flexible arrangements could provide measurable benefits for both individuals and organisations, particularly in knowledge-based industries.
Asynchronous Work Linked To Better Mental Health
The research suggests asynchronous work as a possible remedy for stress and communication overload. This approach allows teams to collaborate and complete tasks independently, using tools such as recorded video updates, shared documents or project management platforms instead of relying on live meetings and immediate responses.
Currently, fewer than half (45%) of UK workers make use of asynchronous work practices. However, among those who do, 65% report that it has improved their mental health. Respondents noted benefits including greater control over their day and fewer unnecessary meetings. Almost a third (32%) said asynchronous communication reduces the pressure to respond instantly to incoming messages.
Atlassian’s findings suggest that while UK workers are struggling with the demands of real-time communication and fixed schedules, there is clear evidence that alternative ways of working can lead to improved focus and wellbeing.