It's official – Australian workers are mentally exhausted and suffering burnout. Photo: ShutterstockMore than half of all Australian workers have taken sick leave due to mental exhaustion, with widespread burnout across the population taking its toll, according to new research. Working long unpaid hours and the inability to disconnect will take its toll over the long term, Wijayasinghe said. The findings come amid broader concerns about workplace mental health in Australia. Earlier this year it was revealed the number of Australian workers making workplace mental health insurance claims had jumped by almost 20 per cent in the last 12 months.