Employment Law

AI Reportedly Reducing Staff Burnout, Increasing Loneliness in 2026

A worker with their hands over their face at their desk. (Photo: Shironosov / iStock)

While artificial intelligence (AI) is still in its infancy, a recent study continues to prove how it’s a double-edged sword for companies.

According to research by Workday, 62% of workers who use AI claimed that it’s reduced their burnout. However, one-third of respondents admitted that they rarely or never have interactions with their colleagues anymore due to the technology being a one-stop shop for everything staff need.

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“As we route more questions, ideas, and even conflicts through AI, we risk losing the everyday human interactions that build trust, resilience, and a sense of connection,” Carrie Varoquiers, chief impact officer at Workday, said in a news release on the findings.

Surprisingly, the study found that employees were more fearful of workplace loneliness than being laid off.

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