Work addiction

摘要

1. Work addiction has a range of serious implications for the individual's physical and mental health and frequently also takes a toll on relationships 2. Using the six core features of addiction and/or the Bergen Work Addiction Scale, it is possible to identify those people at risk of work addiction 3. Work addiction can lead an individual down a vicious spiral in which the preoccupation with work causes emotional and physical stress as well as general unhappiness. In turn, more work is used as a form of'escapism'or coping with the difficulties caused 4. Education and awareness training-of HR/OH staff and of the workforce generally-can help individuals understand the risks of becoming addicted to work and how to avoid it, through promoting better balance and healthy boundaries between life and work 5. Clinical treatment may be necessary in serious cases. Cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and motivational interviewing are recommended approaches 6. Workplaces can help in preventing the problem of work addiction by creating a healthier environment that does not incentivise overwork but rather prioritises sustainability and long-term work health.