Workplace mental health: Rising stress and work addiction reported

Recent studies highlight rising levels of mental exhaustion and work-related addiction in the workforce. According to the Mavie Stress Study 2026, which surveyed 1,002 people in Austria, 83 percent of employees continue to work despite experiencing mental exhaustion. The study found that 67 percent of respondents feel stressed frequently or very frequently, with women reporting higher stress levels (73 percent) than men (61 percent). Financial pressure was cited as a primary cause by 39 percent of participants.

In Germany, research conducted by the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) and the Technical University of Braunschweig indicates that approximately one-tenth of employees exhibit addictive working behaviors. This condition is characterized by excessive, compulsive work patterns where individuals struggle to relax during leisure time and experience guilt when taking time off. Experts emphasize the importance of leadership and psychosocial support in managing these workplace mental health challenges.