Work is part of being a productive member of society. Work can be anything from school work, work for one’s job, or domestic work within the home. While work is important for growth and keeping oneself busy, doing too much of it can be bad for one’s physical and mental health. Often people don’t know or realize that they are overworking, but there are symptoms to look out for. Here are some signs someone is overworking themselves:
Trouble Stopping
People who work too much often feel as though they have to keep working and are always responsible for some sort of a work-related task. This can take the form of being on work devices for too long or even being on them over the weekend or on break. Not taking breaks or taking days off for the weekend can have a huge impact on one’s mental health.
Working Overtime Regularly
There are times when working overtime is necessary for getting a project or assignment done. However, working weekends or the evenings regularly is not a healthy habit to have. Even if one is getting compensated for working overtime, the long term effects can become a huge detriment. Burnout is common amongst people who take on overtime shifts as well as amongst students.
Constant Distraction
People who feel overworked may get constantly distracted or become more easily distracted. Being overworked and stressed out can cause people to think about and over analyze their short and long term work. Constant stress can disrupt thinking processes which can lead to further distraction.
Dr. Barbara R. Edwards, Princeton Internist, practices at Penn Medicine Princeton Health in the Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center. She is also the Academic Director for the Ambulatory Residency Program at Penn Medicine Princeton Health.