High Percentage of US Workers Have Cried at Work, Study Finds
A recent survey conducted by AI resume builder Resume Now has uncovered that a significant portion of the American workforce experiences emotional distress on the job. The study, which involved 1,018 adults, found that 39 per cent of US employees have cried at their desk, with 14 per cent reporting multiple instances of such emotional outbursts.
Emotional Strain as a Defining Feature of Modern Work
The research concludes that emotional strain is a defining feature of the modern employee experience, directly affecting productivity and overall morale in workplaces across the United States. This widespread issue is compounded by job insecurity, as over half of employees expressed concern about potential job loss despite having no clear performance issues, contributing to a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction.
Underlying Discontent Reflected in Workforce Data
Federal Reserve data from December 2025 supports these findings, showing that the quitting rate was almost double the layoff rate. This disparity indicates underlying discontent among the workforce, suggesting that many employees are opting to leave their positions voluntarily rather than face ongoing emotional challenges and uncertainty in their current roles.
Expert Recommendations for Employee Well-being
In response to these troubling trends, Duke University's personal assistance service offers advice for employees struggling with workplace stress. They recommend implementing self-care routines, such as:
- Relying on support systems from colleagues, friends, or family
- Maintaining healthy habits, including regular exercise and balanced nutrition
- Seeking professional mental health assistance for overwhelming events or persistent emotional strain
These strategies aim to help workers manage stress and improve their overall well-being in demanding professional environments.
