Working long hours linked to depression in women

Work-life balance is a crucial factor that affects our mental health. When we work long hours, it is common to feel exhausted, stressed, and burnt out. However, recent studies have shown that working long hours can lead to depression, particularly in women.

Depression is a severe mental illness that affects a person’s mood, thoughts, and behaviour. It can be caused by various factors, including genetics, environment, and life events. However, the link between long working hours and depression is often overlooked, especially in women.

A study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that women who work long hours are more likely to experience depression than those who work regular hours. The study followed over 11,000 working women for a period of 12 years and found that those who worked 55 hours or more per week were 7.3 per cent more likely to experience depression than those who worked 35-40 hours per week.

The study also found that the link between long working hours and depression was more pronounced in women who had children, were in low-income jobs, and had little control over their work schedules. These women were more likely to experience work-family conflicts, which can lead to stress and burnout, contributing to depression.

The link between long working hours and depression in women can be attributed to various factors. Firstly, long working hours can lead to chronic stress, which can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body, leading to mood disorders such as depression. Secondly, long working hours can affect a person’s sleep pattern, which can contribute to depression. Thirdly, working long hours can limit the time that women have for self-care activities, such as exercise, socializing, and relaxation, which can affect their mental health.

It is essential to address the issue of long working hours, particularly in women. Employers can help by promoting work-life balance initiatives, such as flexible work schedules, remote working, and paid time off. This can help employees to prioritize their mental health and well-being, which can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction.

Individuals can also take steps to manage their work-related stress and prevent depression. This can include setting boundaries between work and personal life, practicing self-care activities such as exercise and meditation, and seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional.

In conclusion, the link between long working hours and depression in women is a significant concern that needs to be addressed. It is crucial for both employers and individuals to prioritize work-life balance and take steps to prevent stress and burnout, which can lead to depression. By doing so, we can promote a healthy work culture that benefits both the employees and the employers.

Science Daily