HR for Breakfast podcast: HR Is in a Mental Health Crisis. Here's the One Thing That Changes the Odds.

In this episode of HR for Breakfast, Dr Jo Burrell discusses the findings of the 2026 HR Mental Wellbeing Report and what the data reveals about the emotional reality of working in HR today.

Drawing on insights from almost 3,000 HR professionals surveyed over three years, Jo explores the what's underpinning the HR mental health crisis, the growing levels of anxiety, depression and burnout within the profession, alongside the hidden pressures many HR professionals carry while continuing to support everyone around them. The conversation examines why so many people in HR appear to be coping on the surface while struggling privately beneath it.

The discussion also focuses on one of the report’s clearest findings: support matters. Jo explains why psychologically informed support, reflective spaces and meaningful organisational backing can make a significant difference to wellbeing, resilience and retention within HR teams.

An insightful and thought-provoking conversation for anyone interested in workplace wellbeing, the changing demands of HR roles, and what organisations can do differently to better support the people supporting everyone else.

Find out more about the support we offer to HR professionals, providing impartial space for reflection through our innovative HR Supervision services.

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