Almost three in four (74%) accountants said they have experienced a form of burnout (including exhaustion, detachment or decreased job performance) over the past 12 months, according to a recent poll from caba, the occupational charity for ICAEW members and students.
More than one in three (36%) of those surveyed said they have suffered from insomnia or disrupted sleep, and one in three (32%) has been diagnosed with or self- identifies with depression. And you can add three in 10 (29%) experiencing regular panic attacks.
The report findings show the concerning prevalence of chronic stress and other burnout-related symptoms within the profession.
Just over one in three (36%) respondents said that their burnout symptoms had caused them to feel lonely or isolated, while a similar percentage (32%) said that their symptoms had led them to experience financial difficulties.
Cristian Holmes, Chief Executive at caba, said: “Being a chartered accountant is a highly respected and rewarding career choice, and there are a great many people who are incredibly happy in their role.
However, for some, long working hours and tight deadlines can make for a high-pressure environment, which can sometimes lead to severe physical, emotional and behavioural symptoms we often associate with burnout.”
