Resignation Letter Due to Stress (UK)
A resignation letter due to stress or health reasons is used when an employee needs to leave their role because of work-related stress, mental health concerns, or medical conditions under UK employment law. This guide explains how to approach this sensitively and professionally.
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Generate Health Resignation LetterWhen would you use a stress-related resignation letter?
This type of resignation letter is appropriate when health concerns make continuing employment impossible:
- •Work-related stress: When workplace pressure, workload, or environment is affecting your mental health
- •Burnout: Severe exhaustion from prolonged workplace stress
- •Mental health conditions: Anxiety, depression, or other conditions exacerbated by work
- •Physical health issues: Medical conditions requiring you to step away from work
- •Medical advice: When healthcare professionals advise you to reduce or eliminate work stress
Things to consider before resigning due to stress
Your Health Comes First
If work is seriously affecting your health, prioritize your wellbeing. However, explore all options before resigning, as you may have legal protections and support available.
Explore alternatives first
Before resigning, consider: requesting reduced hours, discussing workload with your manager, taking sick leave, or requesting reasonable adjustments if you have a disability under the Equality Act 2010. ACAS provides guidance on workplace stress and your employer's duty of care.
Document everything
Keep records of conversations about your health, any requests for adjustments, and your employer's responses. If your employer failed to address known health and safety issues, this documentation could support future claims or ensure you receive proper references.
Medical evidence
Consider obtaining a fit note from your GP. This documents that your health condition is genuine and may protect you if questions arise about your resignation. You don't need to disclose specific diagnoses in your resignation letter.
Notice period considerations
If your health genuinely prevents you from working, your employer should be understanding about notice periods. Offer to work it if possible, but prioritize your health. Many employers will agree to waive notice in genuine health situations to avoid potential discrimination claims.
Consider constructive dismissal
If your employer caused or significantly contributed to your stress through breach of duty of care, you may have grounds for a constructive dismissal claim. Seek legal advice before resigning if this applies, as resignation can affect your ability to claim.
Financial implications
Check if you're eligible for Statutory Sick Pay, Employment and Support Allowance, or other benefits. If resigning due to ill health, you may not be entitled to claim unemployment benefits immediately. Plan your finances accordingly.
What to include in your letter
Keep your resignation letter professional and maintain appropriate boundaries:
- 1.Clear resignation statement: State that you're resigning due to health reasons without excessive detail
- 2.Notice period: Offer to work your notice if health permits, or request waiver if it doesn't
- 3.Brief explanation: "Due to ongoing health concerns" is sufficient—you don't need to share medical details
- 4.Professional tone: Avoid emotional language or blame, even if work caused your condition
- 5.Gratitude (optional): Thank them for opportunities if appropriate, but don't feel obligated
Privacy Note
You're not required to disclose specific medical conditions. "Health reasons" or "medical advice" is sufficient explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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