Nowadays, going above and beyond is not just encouraged but often a crucial step if you want to advance your career. Still, this level of dedication may be harmful. Researchers are finding more and more evidence of the detrimental effects of overworking.
Beyond missing out on important family dinners or sacrificing personal time, pushing past the traditional 40-hour work week may lead to injuries and chronic health concerns.
The toll of overworking on your health
Your dedication to the job is admirable, but it should not jeopardize your well-being. Here are some compelling reasons why you might want to think twice before signing up for that extra shift:
- Clocking extra hours may significantly increase your risk of workplace injuries.
- Increasing your work hours may heighten the risk of developing chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, or cancer.
- Working 55 hours or more per week has been associated with increased mortality rates from heart disease and stroke.
- Experiencing work stress can also lead to a greater risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal behavior.
Recognizing these risks and taking the appropriate action is crucial to protecting your well-being.
When overtime leads to harm
Despite established labor standards, excessive overtime continues to be the norm for many employees. Yet, this culture of overworking may negatively impact both you and your employer in many ways.
- After 50 hours of work, your productivity may plummet, suggesting that putting in more hours does not lead to better results.
- Pushing yourself past your limits, particularly if you operate heavy machinery or do extensive driving, may expose you to dangerous situations.
If you have developed an illness or suffered an injury due to overwork, workers’ compensation may offer financial assistance while you recover. It can cover a portion of your medical expenses and missed income.
Your health is your most valuable asset. Don’t let your job consume you. You deserve enough time to relax and recharge and secure the benefits that workers’ compensation provides, if necessary.
