How Long Work Hours Affect Health and Longevity

Long working hours (>40 hrs/week) may seem like a sign of commitment, but they can increase stress, and health risks, and reduce life expectancy.

Long working hours have become increasingly common, in today’s fast-paced work environment. Many individuals, particularly in high-pressure industries, find themselves working beyond the standard 40-hour workweek.

While professional success and career growth are often linked to dedication and hard work, research has shown that working long hours can harm health and reduce life expectancy.

What Is Meant by Long Working Hours?

Long work hours are typically defined as working more than 40 hours a week, with some individuals working up to 60 hours or more. In certain cultures and industries, working overtime is considered a sign of commitment and dedication.

However, working beyond the standard hours can lead to chronic stress, mental exhaustion, and physical health problems, which, over time, may reduce life expectancy (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
The Effect of Long Working Hours and Overtime on Occupational Health: A Meta-Analysis of Evidence from 1998 to 2018

Go to source).

How Do Long Work Hours Impact Stress Levels?

One of the primary health risks associated with long working hours is the chronic stress that individuals experience. Stress, particularly when it is sustained over long periods, can have severe effects on the body.

Chronic stress triggers the body’s fight-or-flight response, causing an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Over time, this puts a strain on the heart, raising the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other related conditions.

Long work hours can lead to burnout, anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. The lack of work-life balance, coupled with pressure and deadlines, can severely affect an individual’s emotional well-being, making them more vulnerable to psychological disorders.

Chronic stress weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses, and prolonging recovery time.

Effects on Physical Health

The physical toll of working long hours is substantial. Extended hours at the office, especially in sedentary environments, can lead to a range of health problems.

• Cardiovascular Disease: Long work hours (55+ hours/week) increase the risk of stroke by 35% and heart disease by 17%, according to WHO (2^✔ ✔Trusted Source
  Long working hours increasing deaths from heart disease and stroke: WHO, ILO

  Go to source

  ).

• Obesity and Poor Lifestyle: Extended hours reduce the time for exercise, lead to unhealthy eating habits, and increase risks of obesity and diabetes.
• Sleep Deprivation: Insufficient sleep affects cognitive function, raises accident risks, and contributes to conditions like hypertension, obesity, and weakened immunity.
• Musculoskeletal Problems: Prolonged sitting, poor ergonomics, and repetitive motions cause back pain, neck stiffness, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Mental and Social Burden of Long Work Hours

While the physical toll of long work hours is apparent, the psychological and social consequences are equally important as long work hours often lead to isolation, as individuals have less time to spend with family and friends. This lack of social support can increase the risk of depression and anxiety, further affecting physical health.

The inability to balance work with personal time can result in a lack of fulfilment, affecting an individual’s overall quality of life. A poor work-life balance can cause feelings of dissatisfaction, which, over time, may contribute to chronic stress and health problems.

Practical Tips for Balancing Work and Health

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule to combat sleep deprivation and improve overall health.
• Short breaks reduce mental fatigue and alleviate physical strain.
• Physical activity boosts cardiovascular health, reduces stress, and counters sedentary effects.
• Set boundaries and balance work with personal time to avoid burnout.
• Strengthen relationships with family and friends for better mental well-being.
• Remote work and flexible schedules help employees manage time and reduce excessive work hours.
• Initiatives like stress management, mental health support, and fitness facilities promote healthier work environments.

To promote better health outcomes and improve quality of life, individuals, employers, and society need to recognize the value of work-life balance and take steps to mitigate the harmful effects of long working hours.

References:

1. The Effect of Long Working Hours and Overtime on Occupational Health: A Meta-Analysis of Evidence from 1998 to 2018 – (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6617405/)
2. Long working hours increasing deaths from heart disease and stroke: WHO, ILO – (https://www.who.int/news/item/17-05-2021-long-working-hours-increasing-deaths-from-heart-disease-and-stroke-who-ilo)

Source-Medindia