America, we need a breather. A new global study reveals the countries in need of relaxation, and unsurprisingly, the United States ranks near the top. From hustle culture to sleepless nights, Americans are more stressed than ever—and now, the data backs it up, according to a study by Grounding Well.
According to the recent findings, Americans are among the most overworked, underrested, and mentally exhausted worldwide. The study factors in average working hours, vacation time, mental health rates, sleep quality, and stress levels.
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Why the U.S. Is One of the Countries in Desperate Need of Relaxation
The numbers show that the U.S. has one of the longest average workweeks, with many full-time employees working over 40 hours. Unpaid overtime, limited vacation time, and a relentless hustle culture lead to widespread burnout.
Work Culture Is Dragging Americans Down
In countries like France and Spain, mandatory vacation days and cultural siestas offer some relief. But in the U.S.? That “grind now, rest later” mindset is grinding people into the ground.
- 70% of Americans don’t use all their paid time off
- 60% check work emails on weekends or vacation
- Burnout rates among U.S. workers are at an all-time high, according to a recent American Psychological Association report
And it’s not just about work — it’s also about sleep. The U.S. ranks among the worst countries for sleep quality and duration, with an average of just 6.8 hours per night, far below the recommended amount.
Mental Health Crisis is a Major Contributor
Mental health and physical exhaustion play a huge role in this ranking. Anxiety, depression, and chronic stress are on the rise. 1 in 5 American adults now struggles with a mental health condition, according to CDC data.
Countries That Need Relaxation the Most — U.S. Leads, But Who Else Is Struggling?
The U.S. isn’t alone in this crisis. The study highlights several other nations struggling with burnout and poor work-life balance. Here are some of the top-ranking countries:
Top 6 Countries in Need of Relaxation
- Israel– Good work hours, but 62 percent of its citizens says they are experiencing stress
- United States– The US also has an average of 10 vacation days.
- South Korea – Long hours, minimal vacation time, and academic pressure
- United Kingdom – Fast-paced work environment and mental health concerns
- Japan – Notorious for overworking and “karoshi” (death by overwork)
- Germany – Increasing stress from economic uncertainty and work-life imbalance
Interestingly, Nordic countries like Norway, Sweden, and Finland ranked among the most relaxed. Why? Because they prioritize work-life balance, mental wellness, and actual rest.
Oliver Bennett, a spokesperson for Grounding Well, states that the results indicate stress is becoming the default state for most cultures.
“The clear difference between the most stressed and most relaxed nations highlights how national approaches to work-life balance directly impact well-being and quality of life.”
