30/05/2025
A Bupa UK study this week found that roughly six in ten (57%) workers say they've struggled with some form of addiction, while just under half (48%) say they have turned to addictive behaviours to cope with workplace stress.
The UK has become a burnt-out nation, with record numbers of employees being off sick due to poor mental health and wellbeing, and not being able to cope.
Burnout is more than tiredness - it's emotional exhaustion, detachment, and feeling ineffective at work. If left unchecked, it can escalate into anxiety or depression and, eventually, into developing an addiction.
This is something we have seen first-hand at Delamere, with a rise in admissions in the past two months, relating specifically to burnout.
As the reported rate of addictions in the UK continues to rise, it is even more important that employers contribute to a safe environment for employees to speak up, and to spot the early signs of chronic stress, burnout and/or severe mental health problems before it leads to something worse. Without this, we are likely to see higher levels of addiction in the workplace than shown in Bupa’s report.
At Delamere, we offer residential care that doesn’t just treat symptoms but helps uncover the root causes of addiction. Our intensive therapeutic programmes support individuals in recognising triggers, regaining control, and restoring wellbeing.
The UK needs to have more, and healthier, conversations around workplace wellbeing and addiction.
We will continue to work closely with HR leaders across the country that want to refer their employees to receive professional treatment and get the support they need.
🔗 Learn more about the harms of workplace burnout at: https://delamere.com/rehab/mental-health/work-burnout
If you or a loved one are in need of work burnout treatment, then Delamere can support. Find out more here about our luxury residential rehab for burnout.