Putting in extra hours can exaggerate these feelings. In short, we think that work is good for us, even if we don t enjoy it. In many ways work is good for us. It benefits our personal growth and intellect. But the benefits to body, mind and soul do not necessarily correspond with the number of hours worked.
Medical reports released throughout the past decade show how detrimental overworking can be.
In addition to the fatigue and stress caused by long hours, overworked employees can experience moderate to severe medical problems. They have less time to exercise, are more likely to skip doctor visits and tend to eat a less healthy diet. They are also more prone to both depression and suicide. By the end of the decade, lawyer networks, a national defense council and the Japanese Labor Ministry had taken action to investigate deaths from overwork and to certify some suicides as occupational. Overworking damages personal lives as well.