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July 2025 - Health

Over a quarter of UK NHS doctors struggling with burnout, according to latest research: A recent study of NHS doctors in the UK has found that over a quarter (27%) are experiencing burnout, while a further 1 in 7 (14%) are experiencing both burnout and depression, with the majority citing work workload as The primary factor.

The findings from the Medscape UK Wellness and Life Outside of Work Report 2025 surveyed 903 doctors between December 2024 and March 2025 to gain a better understanding of their mental and physical wellbeing in their working and non-work lives.

Among those surveyed, workplace pressures were mentioned as the main cause of burnout, affecting both their work and non-work lives. Over three-quarters attributed their mental health issues primarily or solely to their jobs, while just 1 in 10 (10%) said their personal life was the key factor. Around two-thirds (67%) also reported that their poor mental health had strained personal relationships. And despite recognising the importance of good mental health, coping strategies varied across the group. Just over half (53%) actively took steps to prioritise their mental well-being, with General Practitioners more likely to do so than hospital specialists. However, one in 7 (14%) admitted using alcohol as a coping mechanism, and 1 in 10 (10%) reported using prescription drugs.

When asked about life outside the workplace, two-thirds (67%) of those surveyed reported being happy with their work-life balance, citing hobbies such as sport, music, cooking, and gardening as crucial to their mental wellbeing. Interestingly, though, almost half (48%) said they would accept a lower salary in exchange for a better work-life balance. Moreover, while just over half (54%) say they believe that taking holidays is important for happiness and good mental health, the study found that younger doctors (those under 45 years) were more inclined to take the least time off. Over a quarter (28%) admitted taking only 1-2 weeks' annual leave a year, while more than one in three (13%) took less than a week's leave. Unsurprisingly, the study found that this group was more likely to report experiencing burnout and depression.

These findings illustrate that burnout, mental health struggles, and workload-related stress are prevalent issues among UK doctors, and despite a general awareness of the importance of mental health, many doctors are struggling to maintain their mental wellbeing. 

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