Sleepless nights caused by work anxiety are taking a heavy toll on employees. More than four in 10 professionals (44 percent) often lose sleep over work, according to new research from global staffing firm Accountemps. Common causes of restlessness include an overwhelming workload, a looming business problem, and strained coworker relationships. The survey includes responses from more than 2,800 workers across 28 major U.S. cities.
Workers were asked, “How often do you lose sleep over work?” Their responses:
- Very often: 15%
- Somewhat often: 29%
- Not very often: 43%
- Never: 13%
Among those who lose sleep over work, the following were cited as the root causes:*
- Overwhelmed with work volume/hours: 50%
- Can’t get a business problem out of my head: 48%
- Strained coworker relationships: 20%
- Worried I may lose my job: 18%
- My boss is a nightmare: 16%
- Other: 7%
Additional findings:
- Professionals in Miami, Nashville, and New York most often lose sleep over work-related issues.
- Cleveland, Philadelphia, and Minneapolis have the highest percentage of respondents who cited they never miss out on rest.
- Professionals ages 18 to 34 more often lose sleep over work (57 percent) compared to those ages 35 to 54 (45 percent) and 55 and older (29 percent).
- Male respondents say they lie awake often (50 percent), while women are slightly less likely to (40 percent).
“Work stressors can often follow you home, but try to check them at the door,” said Michael Steinitz, executive director of Accountemps. “If you have too much on your plate, schedule time with your manager to discuss possible solutions to alleviate the pressure, such as delegating work to others, adjusting deadlines or bringing in temporary help.”
Steinitz added, “Employee stress can lead to lower job satisfaction and engagement and higher turnover. Managers can support their teams by maintaining open lines of communication and planning regular check-ins to discuss workload and other worries.”
*Multiple responses allowed
