A quarter of full-time workers say they are generally stressed at work, 23% said they never take a break during work and 7% do not even take a holiday, according research by Legal & General.

The research, to mark National Stress Awareness Day on Wednesday, is part of an ongoing study of Britons’ health worries and perceptions.

Vanessa Sallows, underwriting and benefits director for Legal & General's group protection business, says: "Work is very important to many people but this may lead to people becoming too absorbed in their daily routine and this can lead to increased pressure and stress. If this situation is prolonged this may take its toll on a worker’s physical and mental wellbeing and result in a range of health problems such as heart disease, back pain and gastrointestinal problems.”