Supporting Your Workforce During the Holidays: What the Data Shows — and What Employers Can Do
Holidays.
The Holidays Are a Pressure Point — and an Opportunity
The holiday season brings unique pressures for employees — but it also gives employers a meaningful opportunity to strengthen trust, loyalty, and engagement.
Data shows that stress, burnout, and financial strain increase at year-end. But companies that respond with flexibility, empathy, and practical support often see stronger retention and morale going into the new year.
What the Data Tells Us (and Why It Matters)
Holiday Stress Is Common — and Understandable
53% of workers report feeling more stressed than usual during the holidays, and 22% say their overall wellbeing declines during this time.
Source: Monster Holiday Work-Life Balance Poll
https://www.monster.com/career-advice/job-search/news-and-insights/holiday-work-life-balance-poll-202466% of employees feel financial pressure during the holidays, making money one of the biggest stressors at year-end.
Source: Modern Health
https://www.modernhealth.com/post/employee-sentiment-holiday-stress
This stress often shows up as fatigue, distraction, and emotional overload — not lack of commitment.
Burnout Is Already High — Before December Even Starts
More than half of U.S. workers report experiencing burnout, entering the holiday season already stretched thin.
Source: Eagle Hill Consulting
https://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2025/11/24/over-half-of-u-s-workers-experiencing-burnout-survey-finds/173833/Burnout has been directly linked to lower productivity, higher absenteeism, and increased turnover risk.
Source: HR Dive
https://www.hrdive.com/news/workers-report-burnout-ahead-of-holiday-season/806896/
This makes employer support during the holidays especially impactful.
Time Off Helps — But Many Employees Don’t Take It
48% of U.S. workers don’t use all their available PTO, even when stress levels are high.
Source: Eagle Hill Consulting
https://www.eaglehillconsulting.com/news/nearly-half-of-us-workers-wont-deplete-vacation-2024/
Employees often avoid taking time off due to workload concerns, staffing gaps, or fear of falling behind — which can actually increase burnout over time.
How Employers Can Make a Real Difference (What Works)
The good news: small, intentional actions from employers go a long way during the holidays. Learn how we support employers.
1. Normalize and Encourage Time Off
When leadership openly supports PTO use, employees feel safer taking the rest they need — and return more focused and engaged.
2. Offer Flexibility Where Possible
Flexible schedules, adjusted shifts, or remote options help employees manage personal obligations without sacrificing performance.
3. Acknowledge Financial Stress
Even simple steps — like sharing financial wellness resources or adjusting schedules to reduce overtime strain — show awareness of real employee concerns.
4. Reinforce Boundaries
Encourage teams to disconnect after hours and during holidays. Many workers still feel pressure to stay “always on,” even when they’re off.
Source: Monster
https://www.monster.com/career-advice/job-search/news-and-insights/holiday-work-life-balance-poll-2024
5. Lead with Appreciation
Recognition, gratitude, and clear communication during this season directly support morale and retention — and cost far less than replacing burned-out employees in January.
Why This Matters Going Into the New Year
Supporting employees during the holidays isn’t just about getting through December — it’s about starting the next year strong.
Companies that prioritize people during high-stress seasons often see:
Higher engagement
Lower early-year turnover
Better attendance
Stronger workplace culture
Holiday support is not a perk — it’s a strategic investment.
Final Takeaway
Holiday workforce stress rises due to financial pressure, burnout, and scheduling challenges. Employers can reduce turnover and absenteeism by offering flexibility, clear communication, and human-led workforce support.
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