Overwork Linked to Increased Risk of Heart Problems, Mental Health Crisis
PARIS - Pushing oneself relentlessly at work isn’t just a fast track to burnout; it’s increasingly linked to serious cardiovascular issues, according to experts. While the pressure to succeed and the “always-on” culture have long been recognized as detrimental to mental wellbeing, emerging research highlights the significant toll excessive work demands take on physical health, particularly the heart.
Burnout disproportionately affects workaholics, ambitious individuals, and perfectionists, creating a cycle of chronic stress. This constant state of alert can exacerbate existing health vulnerabilities and contribute to conditions like heart disease. Aidan Buffey, a researcher at the University of Limerick in Ireland, told National Geographic that chronic stress is worsened by lifestyle factors like poor diet and insufficient sleep. “These effects can be made worse by other lifestyle factors, such as not being able to eat a balanced diet or prioritize sleep,” Buffey stated.
Experts recommend establishing firm boundaries to mitigate these risks.This includes declining additional tasks when capacity is reached,prioritizing adequate sleep,disconnecting from work communications outside of legal working hours,and learning to delegate responsibilities.
Beyond workload management, incorporating regular moments of calm and physical activity – even gentle exercise like walking or meditation – is crucial for regulating the nervous system and reducing stress. Maintaining a healthy diet is also paramount. The core principle, experts say, is to prioritize living alongside work, rather than living for work.
Sabine BOUCHOUL for TF1 INFO