The UK’s tech workforce is as stressed as that of the NHS, a new study into the sector has revealed, highlighting significant mental health concerns.
According to the BIMA Tech Inclusion and Diversity Survey, which received responses from a pool of tech industry members representing just over 4% of the entire UK workforce, depression among those employed in tech is more than five times the UK national average, with 52% of all respondents having suffered from anxiety or depression at some point.
As opposed to experiencing ordinary short periods of stress, 66% of respondents reported feeling regularly stressed by their work, with 13% constantly stressed. Over half say they “sometimes” or “constantly” experience symptoms that affect their daily lives, including headaches, anxiety attacks, sleeplessness, indigestion and continual tiredness.
Respondents working in business operations reported by far the highest levels of constant stress within the sector at 27%, with web design and development, admin, and project development the most stressful roles overall.
[advert position=”left”]
Furthermore, the study found that 18-34 year olds are the most stressed age group, with reported levels of stress being significantly higher than in those aged 45 or over; perhaps explained in part by the comparative youth of leaders within the sector.
Commenting on the report, Matt Janes, neuroscience, functional medicine and mental health practitioner, said: “The results of this survey should be taken very seriously. Our bodies are designed to be under stress for only very short periods of time,.
Prolonged stress, such as work stress, is “highly correlated” with mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression, as well as conditions including heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease and some forms of cancer, Janes added.
28% of respondents said they have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, with 43% of those revealing such a condition stating that their career within the tech sector has been negatively affected as a result.
“The BIMA Tech Diversity & Inclusion Report has uncovered far more than we expected thanks to the honesty of the people who took part,” said Nadya Powell, chair of the BIMA Diversity and Inclusion Council.
“It’s deeply upsetting to realise the extent that mental health, stress and anxiety are challenging people within the industry.”
However, Powell said the survey revealed positive signs for the future of the industry, as it found that education and socio-economic background are less likely now to be limiters to entry, adding that a renewed focus within the sector on enabling individuals to transfer into tech at later stages in life will have a “significant and positive impact” on diversity within the sector.
“This report gives BIMA a clear sign-post on what to do next, and I would urge everyone to read the report and commit to at least one change that will enable this wonderful industry to flourish,” she added.
For support and advice around mental health, visit Mind.org.
