45% tech professionals impacted by stress, depression: Study

Around 43 per cent of tech professionals in India experience health concerns due to their work, with long work hours identified as one of the major contributors to poor health. According to a study, which was done by Onsurity in partnership with the Knowledge Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), more than 50 per cent of tech professionals in India are working an average of 52.5 hours per week, surpassing the national average of 47.7 hours per week. 

The study titled “Burying the Burnout: Decoding the Health Challenges of India’s Tech Geniuses” highlighted that a staggering 55 per cent of these professionals have reported that working late hours significantly impacts their health, leading to concerns such as acidity, gut problems, back and neck pain, erratic sleep cycles, muscle stiffness, eyesight-related issues, weight gain, and intense headaches. 

Additionally, nearly 45 per cent of tech professionals have disclosed that their mental health is suffering, with stress, anxiety, and depression taking a toll on their well-being. 

Over 26 per cent of techies are experiencing exacerbated sleep patterns, with more than 51 per cent of them getting only an average of 5.5 to 6 hours of sleep per day. Furthermore, a significant 74 per cent of techies are sacrificing family events and celebrations due to work demands. 

Commenting on the findings of the study, Yogesh Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Onsurity said, “Our findings serve as a wake-up call for tech-led companies, and we hope that it inspires more companies to prioritise the health and well-being of their teams.” 
 
Key Findings: 

• Over 50 per cent of tech professionals in India are clocking an average of 52.5 hours every week, surpassing the overall national average of 47.7 hours per week.
   
• A staggering 55 per cent of tech professionals have voiced that working late hours significantly impacts their health. Among their top concerns are acidity, gut problems, back and neck pain, erratic sleep cycles, muscle stiffness, eyesight-related issues, weight gain, and intense headaches. 
   
• Nearly 45 per cent of tech professionals have disclosed that their mental health is taking a hit. Stress, anxiety, and depression are chipping away at their well-being, leaving them struggling to cope. 
   
• Over 26 per cent of tech professionals face exacerbated sleep patterns, with over 51 per cent of them sleeping an average of 5.5 to 6 hours a day. 
   
• 74 per cent of techies sacrifice family events and celebrations due to work demands.