When work becomes an addiction, not only does one's own health suffer, but also relationships.
Workaholics are not only recognized by the fact that they often work overtime.
The following article contains topics related to addictions. For some people, these issues can trigger negative reactions.
Do you suspect you are a workaholic?
Anyone who regularly works beyond the normal limit puts their health at immense risk - especially if you work sedentarily.
Long-term sitting is considered a high-risk factor for the development of cancer.
But the heart and circulation also suffer, especially during stressful activities.
Because stress promotes high blood pressure, a trigger for heart attacks and strokes.
What many underestimate: The environment of a workaholic also suffers enormously.
Because if one parent is constantly at work – physically or mentally – raising children and housekeeping often gets stuck on the other part.
It is also a burden for children when they hardly ever see a parent.
Workaholism is a behavioral addiction.
Like any behavioral addiction, this can be successfully treated by psychologists, psychotherapists and behavioral therapists.
Self-help groups are also a great help for those affected.
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Workaholics often work late into the night.
© AndreyPopov/Imago
Workaholism: “Those affected work more and more over time”
Do you have the suspicion that a relative or you yourself are suffering from workaholics and are therefore among the workaholics?
In an interview with the
AOK
, Dr.
Stefan Poppelreuter, Head of Analysis & Surveys HR Consulting at TÜV Rheinland Akademie GmbH, which warning signals you should take seriously.
“There is still no clinical diagnosis for people who are workaholic.
However, psychologists can orientate themselves to a certain extent on addiction disorders such as gambling addiction, for which there are already diagnostic criteria,” says the work addiction expert.
As with other dependencies, the workaholic symptoms would include gaining tolerance, according to Poppelreuter: "That means those affected work more and more over time and also engage in activities that actually do not belong to their area of work".
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Symptoms of workaholism at a glance
Acquiring tolerance that goes hand in hand with more and more work.
Switching off is difficult, thoughts are constantly revolving around work - even when traveling or after work.
Physical problems such as high blood pressure, insomnia, back pain or nervous restlessness.
Withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, sweating, nervousness, aggressiveness and impatience when those affected are unable to do their work.
Problems with the partner, in the family and with friends, which can lead to social isolation because relationships break up.
Important to know: workaholism is not just limited to professional activity.
Those affected can also do excessive work in the household or in voluntary work.
Sustainably reduce stress – with proven relaxation techniques
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This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. In no way does it replace a visit to the doctor. Unfortunately, our editors are not allowed to answer individual questions about clinical pictures.
Rubric list image: © AndreyPopov/Imago
