The Dangers of Overtime

Hard work never hurt anyone, right?

Not so fast. Recent research gathered from a long-term British study shows that working overtime may be bad for the heart.

Following more than 10,000 civil servants in London, the study found that those who worked three or more hours longer than a normal seven-hour workday were at a whopping 60% greater risk for heart problems.

The researchers acknowledge that more research needs to be done to determine if there is a correlation between overtime work and other risk factors such as depression and type 2 diabetes; still, the evidence is compelling.

A number of factors could be responsible for these results, including the fact that choosing to work long hours is associated with type A behaviors that are notoriously heart-unfriendly, including a tendency toward competitiveness, tension, hostility, and overdrive.

Other possible reasons for the connection? Stress and anxiety may be worsened by a work-life balance that is out of whack, and lifestyle choices may suffer. After all, it’s hard to come home from a 12-hour day at the office and get geared up to work out, or even to prepare a nutritious meal.

Make sure your employees aren’t sacrificing their health for their jobs by reminding them of the importance of a well-rounded life.

Heart-smart tips: