Work stress and pressure “always” or “often” affected just over a third (34%) of UK workers last year, with 91% experiencing acute periods of both at at least one point.

That raises the risk of burnout, Mental Health UK says .

No wonder experts say we’re seeing a rise in “quiet cracking,” or a slow but certain disconnect from work that happens when employees are burnt out.

If that sounds like you, though, the “43 rule” – which sees workers optimise their annual leave to the best of its science-backed abilities – might help.

What is “the 43 rule”?

A 2025 paper published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that the benefits of holidays on our wellbeing last at least 21 days ― and maybe longer.

In fact, the researchers found, the positive effects might linger for as long

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