A Soulstar Perspective on the Rise of Ill Health in the Workforce

There’s been significant conversation recently about workplace sickness, and for good reason. Sir Charlie Mayfield, former John Lewis boss and author of the new “Keep Britain Working” review, has warned that the UK is “sliding into an avoidable crisis.” This is due to the growing number of people leaving work because of ill health.

Since 2019, an additional 800,000 people have stepped away from the workforce due to health-related issues. The estimated cost to employers? Around £85 billion a year. However, the real cost runs much deeper. It manifests as exhaustion, disconnection, burnout, and a sense that our systems—and our bodies—are stretched beyond their limits.

The Human Cost Behind the Numbers

What’s particularly concerning is the rise in younger people, aged 16-34, dropping out of work altogether. Many cite mental health struggles as the reason.

This situation isn’t just about absence; it’s about overwhelm. It’s about nervous systems stuck in survival mode—constantly on alert and trying to cope in environments that prioritise productivity over presence.

Sir Charlie Mayfield points out that “fit notes” can sometimes become barriers to communication between employees and workplaces. This creates a disconnect that makes returning to work even harder. When people feel unseen or unsupported, they begin to disengage—not just from their job but from themselves.

Work Shouldn’t Break Us - It Should Support Us

At Soulstar, we believe that fulfilling work can and should be good for health. The right kind of work offers structure, purpose, connection, and self-worth—all essential for our emotional and nervous system health. However, for this to be true, workplaces need to evolve.

Wellness isn’t a tick-box exercise or a token mindfulness session; it’s a culture of care. It’s about creating environments where people feel safe to pause, breathe, and self-regulate—not just push through.

When we understand how the nervous system operates, we begin to see that stress, anxiety, and burnout are not weaknesses. They are signals—signals that the system is overloaded, that the body is craving balance, and that people need support before they reach the point of collapse.

How Soulstar Can Help

At Soulstar, we meet people where they are—physically, emotionally, and energetically. We work with the body to down-regulate stress, process stored emotions, and restore the natural rhythm of safety and vitality.

For workplaces, that can look like:

• On-site wellness sessions: Guided breathwork, nervous system resets, or restorative massage to support recovery and focus.

  
  

• Workplace wellness workshops: Helping teams understand stress, regulation, and resilience from a nervous system perspective.

  
  

• Self-recovery programmes: Empowering individuals with simple daily tools to prevent burnout and build embodied awareness.

  
  

Our approach goes beyond the surface. We don’t just aim to fix the symptoms of stress; we help individuals and teams find the root cause, reconnect to themselves, and create sustainable wellbeing that supports both personal and professional growth.

A Future of Work Rooted in Wellbeing

If we truly want to keep Britain working, we must also keep Britain well. Wellness at work isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for a healthy, thriving, and resilient workforce.

The future of work will belong to organisations that understand this: that health isn’t separate from productivity, and that supporting the human nervous system is one of the smartest investments any business can make.

At Soulstar, we’re here to be part of that change. We help individuals and workplaces return to a state of balance, vitality, and connection.

The Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel, and act. In the workplace, mental health can influence productivity, creativity, and engagement.

Understanding Mental Health Challenges

Many employees face mental health challenges that can hinder their performance. Stress, anxiety, and depression are common issues that can lead to absenteeism and decreased productivity. Recognising these challenges is the first step towards creating a supportive work environment.

Strategies for Supporting Mental Health

Employers can implement various strategies to support mental health in the workplace. These may include:

• Flexible working arrangements: Allowing employees to work in ways that suit their personal circumstances can significantly reduce stress.

  
  

• Mental health training: Providing training for managers and staff can help create a culture of understanding and support.

  
  

• Access to mental health resources: Offering resources such as counselling services or mental health days can help employees feel valued and supported.

  
  

Building a Supportive Culture

Creating a culture that prioritises mental health is essential. This involves open communication, empathy, and understanding. When employees feel safe to discuss their mental health, they are more likely to seek help when needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rise of ill health in the workforce is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. By prioritising mental health and wellbeing, organisations can create a thriving work environment. At Soulstar, we are committed to helping individuals and workplaces achieve this balance. Together, we can build a future where work supports health and wellbeing.