NHS doctors are 'at breaking point,' with nearly a fifth reducing their hours and two in five declining extra work to avoid burnout, according to new research. A third of doctors are struggling with heavy workloads, forcing them to work extra hours regularly to meet care demands, says the General Medical Council (GMC). The GMC’s findings reveal a troubling picture of UK doctors' working lives, morale, and wellbeing. The regulator warned that overworked doctors could jeopardise patient safety. 'UK health services are in a critical state, and those who work within them are at breaking point’, stated the GMC’s chief executive. Many doctors are cutting hours and refusing additional work to protect their wellbeing, with many taking time off due to stress. The survey of 4,288 doctors showed 19% had cut hours in the past year, with 41% refusing extra duties. Alarmingly, 47% plan to reduce their contracted hours next year. GPs are the most affected, with 28% reducing hours and 48% struggling. One GP expressed disillusionment, stating, 'I used to love my job. Now I absolutely hate it. I feel exhausted and dread going to work.'