Financial stress may be causing burnout and lowering job satisfaction, according to research from the University of Georgia. While job pressure is a common reason for exhaustion, worries about money can also play a role.

The study surveyed over 200 full-time workers in the United States and found that concerns about money management were linked to higher burnout and lower job satisfaction. This suggests that stress does not stay in one area of life but can spread to others.

Like physical pain

The authors compare financial stress to physical pain: just as an injury in one part of the body can cause discomfort elsewhere, money worries can affect work performance. Burnout has three main signs: feeling detached from work or colleagues, being emotionally drained, and finding less meaning in achievements. These factors together can make workers feel tired and disengaged.

While heavy workloads and lack of control at work are known causes of burnout, the researchers wanted to see if outside stress—especially financial concerns—also played a role. Through an online survey, 217 workers shared their experiences with burnout, job satisfaction, and financial well-being. The results showed that those struggling with money management reported higher burnout and lower job satisfaction.

The study also looked at expectations for future financial security. It found that workers who believed their finances would improve were more satisfied with their jobs, even if they had current money worries. “Current money management stress affects job satisfaction through burnout,” the authors explain. “But expected future financial security directly impacts job satisfaction.”

These findings matter for employers. Some companies now offer financial counseling, recognizing that money worries can hurt job performance. Helping employees manage financial stress—while reminding them of the long-term financial benefits of work—may reduce burnout and improve job satisfaction.

If companies take these insights seriously, they could create a more motivated and resilient workforce.