Workplace burnout affects 55% of U.S. workforce

Workplace burnout, characterized by chronic stress, exhaustion, and detachment, is significantly impacting the American workforce. According to a survey of more than 1,400 U.S. employees conducted by Eagle Hill Consulting in November 2025, 55% of workers report experiencing burnout.

Burnout is distinct from routine tiredness and is often driven by factors such as excessive workloads, lack of control, unclear expectations, and insufficient managerial support. High performers and perfectionists may be particularly susceptible when overwork is conflated with professional dedication.

The phenomenon also has direct implications for employee retention; the Eagle Hill Consulting survey found that burned-out employees are nearly three times more likely to plan on leaving their current employer within the coming year. Experts suggest that while time off may offer temporary relief, addressing the issue requires structural workplace changes, including manageable workloads and clearer organizational priorities.