The accountancy sector is facing a growing challenge with an almost 20% rise in burnout symptoms reported by chartered accountants, according to recent research by caba.

The findings underscored the urgency for enhanced support systems to address the mental and physical health concerns of professionals in the field.

caba chief executive Cristian Holmes stressed the importance of workplace awareness in managing burnout, saying, “While there are many things we can do to manage our own feelings of burnout, fostering awareness in the workplace is a crucial step in supporting employees with feelings of burnout.”

In 2024, 43% of accountants “constantly or often” faced burnout indicators, the report said.

This figure in the same year rose to 74% when adding accountants who ‘sometimes’ faced these symptoms.     

The report found that accountants are more than 36% more likely to report feeling stressed or burnt out compared to employees in other industries.

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Furthermore, one in three accountants have been diagnosed with or self-identify with depression, and three in ten have regular panic attacks.

Physical symptoms such as headaches, sleep disturbances and gastrointestinal issues, are said to be indicators of burnt out. These along with emotional fatigue, can strain professional relationships and exacerbate burnout.

More than two-thirds (63%) of accountants said their current work environment contributed to their burnout.

Caba outlined various measures to support those struggling with burnout, including fostering open communication, promoting work-life balance, and providing accessible resources.

Promoting work-life balance is crucial, urging employees to take regular breaks and vacations to recharge, improving both well-being and productivity.

Additionally, companies can integrate burnout solutions into their culture, not just rely on standalone wellness programmes.