What: Seramount's 2025 survey reveals generational divide in workplace wellbeing, with younger workers and middle managers experiencing unprecedented levels of burnout and mental health challenges.

Why it is important: The findings highlight an urgent need for retail workplace transformation, as employee burnout directly impacts operational efficiency, with 51% of retail staff planning to leave their positions and 68% of VIP clients following their advisors.

The American workforce is experiencing a severe mental health crisis, with 67% of workers reporting at least one burnout symptom. This challenge disproportionately affects younger generations, with Millennials (77%) and Gen Z (72%) experiencing significantly higher rates of burnout compared to their older colleagues. The disparity is stark, with fewer than half of Gen Z (45%) and Millennials (47%) rating their personal wellbeing above average, contrasting sharply with Baby Boomers' 84%. The crisis is particularly acute among management levels, where 80% of managers and 72% of senior managers report burnout, compared to just 18% of executives. Despite increased awareness, support remains inadequate, with only 40% of employees believing their companies provide sufficient mental health resources. Remote work offers some relief, with 49% of fully remote employees feeling well-supported compared to 38% of hybrid or in-office workers. The situation represents more than a temporary challenge; it signals a fundamental shift in workplace expectations, particularly among younger workers who view mental health support as a baseline necessity rather than a benefit.

IADS Notes: The retail industry has been grappling with escalating workforce challenges since late 2024, when a critical turning point emerged with 51% of luxury retail employees planning to leave their positions and 40% citing lack of empowerment as a key issue . The impact extends beyond staffing, as 68% of VIP clients follow their trusted advisors to new employers, making retention a business-critical concern. By March 2025, progressive companies implementing flexible workplace policies achieved a 50% reduction in turnover risk , demonstrating the effectiveness of adaptive strategies. April 2025 research quantified the financial impact, revealing that workplace stress costs retailers $5.4 million annually per organization, with 45% of employees experiencing frequent high stress levels . The industry's response crystallized at the May 2025 HR Central conference, where major retailers showcased their shift toward value-driven employment practices that combine technological innovation with enhanced focus on employee well-being , signaling a fundamental transformation in how the sector approaches workforce management.

Most American workers, especially millennials and Gen Z are burnt out: Here is what's driving them away from work