Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Are you a workaholic?

The term was coined by a psychologist in 1971 named Wayne E. Oates who described it as “an uncontrollable need to work incessantly” as an addiction. We of course would associate this with working long hours but the two don’t necessarily go hand in hand. You can work long hours without being obsessed with work. There are people that barely work 45 hours or so that are unable to detach from work and would be considered workaholics. 

Workaholics often have a higher RMS (Risk for Metabolic Syndrome). This is a reliable gauge of one’s risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Researchers have found that the number of hours worked was not an indication but being a workaholic was. The inability to psychologically detach from work goes together with anxiety, stress, depression, and sleep problems. Stress can literally become chronic. Elevated stress hormones can increase cortisol which can raise blood pressure. When stress is removed the body goes back to regular set points. Chronic stress resets those points to higher than normal hence the danger of a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Even people who love their work are at risk of a high RMS. Just because you love your work doesn’t mean you are unable to disengage but the risk is slightly lower than those who hate their work. Although both are bad even a small difference in risk is important. Being aware of workaholism is part of the battle. Realize that the number of hours worked does not make you a workaholic. It’s necessary to fully disengage from work. Off time is off. 

Managers can help employees find motivation and can provide support. Reduce red tape and other barriers. Provide ample resources, with autonomy and feedback. Help with time management skills, with weekly and long-term goals. Family and friends can work to provide real and emotional support at home.  

Ultimately, the challenge for everyone is to identify if we have a compulsive work mentality and how to prevent the consequences associated with it. We all need to have the ability to switch off so we can have rich and healthy lives. At work and at home too. 

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago