The survey, of over 250,000 workers, reveals that health is directly related to how satisfied an individual is with their job. The research looked at issues such as fulfilment with work, pay, promotion, supervision and co-workers.

The consequences of poor satisfaction can be emotional burnout, reduced self-esteem, increased anxiety and depression. Even a modest decrease in job satisfaction can lead to burn out of considerable clinical importance.

With depression and anxiety the most common reasons for people claiming long-term sickness benefits, the researchers believe this is something small businesses need to be aware of and address.

One way of combating problems is to develop stress management policies that identify and reduce or eradicate factors that cause dissatisfaction, such as hours of work, organisational and management style, and the level of an employee’s control over their own work.

‘Employers should seriously look at tackling the consequences of job dissatisfaction and related health problems with innovative policies,’ urges Professor Cary Cooper of Lancaster University Management School. ‘This would be a wise investment given the potential substantial economic and psychological costs of unhappy or dissatisfied workers. Workers who are satisfied by their jobs are more likely to be healthier as well as happier. Employers should make changes after identifying aspects of the job causing the most stress and dissatisfaction.’

See also: Avoid stress and burnout with these six healthy habits – Infographic