Gallup's survey of more than 141,000 employed adults across 140-plus countries found 40% had experienced stress the previous day, rising to 50% in the US and Canada. Experts say coping apps may help, but employers also need to address harmful workloads and workplace conditions.
Stress is not always harmful: experts said a brief, proportionate surge can sharpen attention when the goal is clear, the demand is time-limited and people have enough resources. Prolonged stress can impair sleep, concentration and decision-making. A 2025 CIPD study found more than a quarter of employees cited stress among their top three reasons for absence.
Occupational health physician Simon Smail says breathing exercises, sleep and mindfulness can help regulate stress but cannot resolve conflicting demands or workplace bullying. He urges employers to examine whether workloads are realistic and supported, and whether employees have meaningful control; other expert recommendations include predictable work, psychological safety and time to recover.
