A new survey suggests millions of people in the UK are regularly feeling stressed – with a big impact on their mental health
Two thirds of Brits are stressed – with money worries through to the state of the world weighing people down, research found.
It suggests millions of people are regularly experiencing disrupted sleep, difficulty concentrating, as well as suffering feelings of depression, and increased forgetfulness. The findings come from a survey from Cigna Healthcare of more than 10,000 adults in 11 countries around the world.
Overall, 67% of people questioned in the UK said they were currently feeling stressed, on par with those from Belgium. The least stressed country in the research was the Netherlands, at 47%, with the average globally being 71%. The most stressed country was Kenya, at 84%.
When it came to the UK, the main reasons for feeling stressed were the ongoing cost of living (44%), uncertainty about the future (40%), personal finances (35%), and workload (21%). A third (32%) also cited world politics and conflict around the globe contribute to making them feel stressed.
According to the poll, 33% of the nation are suffering poor mental health, which rises to almost half (47%) of Gen Z – those aged 18 to 24. Wendy Sherry, from Cigna Healthcare, said: “Our latest research reveals a concerning trend of declining mental health in the UK fuelled by high-stress levels, with potentially devastating long-term consequences. True well-being extends far beyond physical health and encompasses intellectual and emotional stimulation, cultural and social connections, financial and physical security – our vitality.”