A growing number of UK employees struggle with burnout, and a lack of workplace flexibility is a key factor. A recent study by CV Genius, which surveyed 1,000 full-time workers, revealed that three in ten employees blame rigid work arrangements for their declining mental health.
The survey emphasises a concerning trend: 67% of respondents admitted to experiencing depression due to their job, while an even larger 87% reported feeling stressed or burnt out at least once. Younger employees seem to be particularly affected, with 71% of Gen Z and 72% of Millennials attributing their depressive symptoms to work-related pressures.
Geoffrey Scott, senior hiring manager at CV Genius, pointed out that “some correlation” exists between mental health struggles and inflexible work schedules. The data suggests that requiring employees to work strictly in-office with fixed hours increases stress, lower productivity, and overall dissatisfaction.
“Our data found that when employees are forced to work fully in-office and on a rigid time schedule, it negatively impacts their productivity and their mental health — leading to stress and burnout,” said Scott.
The power of flexibility  Â
On the other hand, flexible work arrangements seem to provide a solution. Over 60% of UK employees with flexible schedules reported feeling more productive (61%) and less stressed (64%).
“Flexible work isn’t just a luxury anymore—it’s essential,” says Ethan David Lee, a career expert at CV Genius. “
Companies that adapt to this shift will improve employee morale and build a more engaged and productive workforce.”
Despite these findings, many organisations are pushing for a full return to the office. However, workers are pushing back. Only 5% of employees said they would resign immediately if forced to return full-time, while nearly a third would actively job-hunt or quietly look for hybrid or remote roles.
The rise of hybrid work  Â
Although some employees still value in-office collaboration, most seek a balance. The report revealed that 51% of workers would even accept a lower salary if it meant they could work remotely. If full-time remote work isn’t an option, many employees prefer a hybrid model, with the majority favouring two to three remote days per week.
Companies that fail to embrace flexibility risk losing their top talent as workplace expectations evolve. The 9-to-5 grind may not be completely obsolete, but one thing is clear: the workforce demands change.