Nearly two-thirds of school leaders in England say their mental health has suffered in the past year, with some even leaving the profession due to the pressure. The findings, from a new survey by the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT), come ahead of the union's annual conference in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, this weekend. More than 1,500 senior leaders were surveyed - and 65% said their mental health had been negatively affected over the last 12 months. Nearly half (45%) had sought mental health support, though some reported being unable to access help or not knowing how. Just one in five leaders (20%) now say they would aspire to a headteacher role - which is the lowest level recorded since the union began tracking wellbeing in 2016. The union says the figures highlight how the pressures of school leadership are fuelling a worsening retention crisis in education, at a time when many schools are already struggling to recruit. Members of the NAHT will debate a motion on Saturday which says school leaders have been pushed to "crisis point" and are leaving the profession because of the stresses of the role. It demands "urgent focus" on providing structured and consistent support for school leaders' mental health. Michael Wright, Director of Music, Southwest England said: "I battle daily to make myself present for my students, it's an honour, but it comes with a price and that is the detriment to my mental health." The NAHT survey also found: • 88% of leaders said the job affects their sleep • 77% reported increased stress and worry • 76% said their personal or family life had suffered • 59% reported a negative impact on their physical health • 88% said they now spend more time supporting staff mental health than three years ago Get Sky News on WhatsApp Follow our channel and never miss an update Tap here to follow Paul Whiteman, NAHT's general secretary, said: "It is deeply concerning that so many dedicated school leaders are struggling - and that some are even quitting the profession they love due to the toll on their mental health. "From unmanageable workloads to the pressure of high-stakes inspections, school leadership now feels like it comes with a health warning." More from Sky News: Footage of alleged moment Sycamore Gap tree cut down 'Andrew Tate phenomena' surges in schools Be the first to get Breaking News Install the Sky News app for free The Department for Education said: "We highly value our incredible school staff - they are vital to our Plan for Change, giving every child the best start in life. "We are working together with partners across the education sector to re-establish teaching as an attractive, expert profession - and are already taking action to ease workload pressures and support wellbeing so more teachers stay in the profession."