A new study has revealed that many workers are struggling with their mental and physical health, yet a large proportion are not taking steps to address these challenges. While symptoms may be dismissed as temporary or simply part of working life, the impact of poor health at work can be far-reaching.

Ongoing mental and physical health issues can affect concentration, productivity, safety and job satisfaction, while also increasing the risk of burnout, absenteeism and workplace conflict. Left unaddressed, these challenges can have consequences not only for individuals, but for teams and organisations more broadly.

So, what is driving these issues, and what practical steps can workers take to protect their health and wellbeing?

Mental health

There is a significant gap between the number of workers experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition and those who recognise or identify it as such.

According to a study of Australian, New Zealand and British workers, 77% of employees reported experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition in the past year. However, 78% do not identify as having a mental health condition.

While attitudes toward mental health are beginning to shift, many workers remain reluctant to seek support unless they feel seriously unwell. This reluctance is often driven by concerns about taking time off work, as well as the availability and cost of care.

Privacy concerns also remain a barrier for some, while 63% of workers report that they simply do not feel they need support, despite experiencing symptoms. Many of these workers feel that stress and poor mental wellbeing is simply a normal part of working life.

While the stigma associated with mental health conditions has reduced over time, it is still present.

Physical health

The study also identified physical health an increasing concern for many workers.

Over the past year, 73% of workers reported experiencing physical symptoms that affected their ability to work. Fatigue was particularly widespread, with 94% of workers reporting that they felt fatigued or lacked energy.

Fatigue in the workplace can have serious consequences. It can slow reaction times, impair memory and concentration, and increase the likelihood of errors and workplace accidents. Over time, ongoing fatigue can also contribute to reduced productivity and burnout in the workplace.

Experts attribute these trends to increasingly high workloads, constant demands and sustained pressure. In 2025, workers in Australia reported working record-long hours. This reduces their work life balance, further increasing the risk of physical strain and exhaustion.

Strategies employed by workers to boost their health and wellbeing

Nearly half of all workers report that spending time outdoors and engaging in simple movement can provide an effective mood reset. Workers also identify prioritising sleep and nutrition as key factors in maintaining their overall wellbeing and energy levels.

For many, social connection is equally important. This includes having a strong sense of belonging in the workplace. A sense of belonging involves feeling part of a team, sharing a common purpose and feeling connected to colleagues and the broader community.

Ongoing challenges with mental and physical health often encourage people to reflect on their career direction. This can involve reviewing workload expectations, workplace culture and long-term sustainability. For some, improving wellbeing includes exploring roles that better match their strengths and priorities, or preparing for a career change when the opportunity arises.

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Article References

Sonder (January 2026) ‘State of Employee Health and Wellbeing Report’, Sonder, accessed 23 January 2026.