As National Workaholics Day, which will be observed on July 5th, draws near, we get ready to consider our work habits and how they affect our mental health. While working a lot and productivity are commendable qualities, it is important to understand the potential risks of an unwavering dedication to one’s job. Without striking a healthy work-life balance, these workers risk experiencing burnout, amongst other challenges. Learn more about this concept and how to address it with Clearbrook Treatment Centers Massachusetts.
The Meaning of Workaholism
Workaholism is a term used to describe an addiction-like compulsion to work excessively, which is motivated by a never-ending drive to achieve, complete, or exceed the high goals that one has set for oneself. Workaholics frequently struggle to put work aside, putting work obligations ahead of personal relationships, leisure time, and even their own health.
Contrary to many people, workaholism is more than being diligent or having a solid work ethic. It entails an imbalanced and unhealthy relationship with work, wherein one’s self-worth is intertwined with one’s performance at work and accomplishments in the workplace. Success becomes all-consuming, frequently at the expense of one’s physical and emotional well-being.
Symptoms of workaholism include:
- Obsessive work-related thinking: Constantly thinking about work, even when not at work or engaging in leisure activities.
- Excessive working hours: Consistently putting in more time than is necessary or expected.
- Neglecting personal relationships: Scheduling business obligations ahead of social obligations and failing to spend adequate time with family and friends.
- Physical and mental exhaustion: This includes persistent fatigue, sleep difficulties, and a rise in stress or worry due to a relentless work schedule.
- Neglecting self-care: Ignoring activities that promote personal wellness, such as exercise, a good diet, rest, and hobbies, can quickly escalate into a case of burnout.
The Link Between Workaholism and Mental Health
Although commitment and perseverance are desirable qualities, when they are excessive, they can be harmful to one’s mental health. Workaholism often results in chronic stress, which can aid in the emergence of several mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression.
The inability to unplug from work and excessive working hours, along with the constant pursuit of professional objectives, create a vicious cycle that is bad for mental health. Due to the continual pressure to perform flawlessly and fulfill excessive standards, workaholics may suffer elevated levels of anxiety. Further aggravating mental health issues is the disregard for self-care and interpersonal interactions, which deprives people of significant sources of emotional fulfillment and support.
Numerous factors, such as an elevated risk of burnout, a decline in general life satisfaction, and strained relationships with loved ones, can take a toll on mental health. Recognizing the connection between workaholism and mental health is essential, and self-care, setting limits, and getting help when you need it should all be given top priority. People can safeguard their mental health and develop a more enduring and meaningful work style by encouraging a healthier work-life balance, while companies can implement mental health days to help workers do so.
Mental Health Care at Our Massachusetts Rehab
For those in need of greater assistance in managing symptoms of burnout or other mental illnesses, our Northeast addictions treatment center offers residential mental health care that can help you regain control. We offer a variety of therapy programs that give participants the opportunity to examine the mentalities that are hurting them and produce healthier alternatives to apply moving forward.
To learn more about both our mental health programs and options for Massachusetts substance abuse treatment, call the professionals of Clearbrook at 570-536-9621 today.
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