Researchers have warned that working long hours not only harms mental health, but may also cause physical changes in brain structure, highlighting the risks of chronic fatigue in modern work environments.
In a scientific study published in the journal Occupational & Environmental Medicine and conducted by a team of researchers in South Korea, the study revealed the impact of overwork on cognition and emotional regulation among healthcare workers.
The Effect of Overwork
The study included 110 employees, divided into two groups: one working more than 52 hours per week, and the other working within normal hours.
The results showed that the first group showed significant changes in brain regions associated with executive functions such as memory, attention, and decision-making, as well as regions responsible for emotional regulation and stress management.
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Dr. Wanheng Li, an assistant professor at Chung-Ang University School of Medicine, confirmed that his team did not expect these results. "We observed an increase in the volume of some brain regions associated with cognition and emotion, which is surprising and interesting."
Stress and Chronic Inflammation
He added that these changes may represent an attempt by the brain to adapt to chronic stress, but that continued stress can lead to stress, chronic inflammation, or neurological dysregulation.
Li continued that these changes are not necessarily positive, emphasizing that constant exposure to stress without adequate rest can negatively impact mental and emotional abilities.
Protecting Mental Health
He called for institutional policies to protect mental health, noting that digital devices and long working hours have become a "silent threat" to mental and physical balance, according to Fox News.
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For his part, Dr. Paul Saphir, a neurosurgeon in New Jersey, said the study's results make sense. "Stress and chronic stress cause changes in brain chemistry and may even extend to its structure."
He pointed out that high-pressure professions such as surgery and aviation often require strict schedules to minimize errors resulting from fatigue.
Health is part of professional success
Career counselor Kyle Elliott emphasized the importance of investing in mental health as an integral part of professional success, saying, "If you neglect your mental health, you're not only risking your job, but also your physical health and longevity."
He advised taking regular breaks, reducing social media use, and connecting with supportive people both in and outside of the workplace.
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