According to researchers, work addiction is mainly characterized by working excessively and compulsively. In other words, if you are a workaholic you feel compelled to work for more hours than is normal.
Dr. Judith Zackson, clinical psychologist, joined FOX 61 Good Day Connecticut to talk about the issue.
Signs of work addiction:
- You spend time thinking about how you can work more hours each day. This means that you actively look for time that can be spent working.
- You work more than you mean to.
- You devote yourself to work to escape from unpleasant emotions. You feel anxious, depressed or guilty, and to tamp down those feelings you keep yourself busy at work.
- Friends or family ask you to cut back at work, but you don't listen.
- Not being able to work stresses you out. You really have to come home in time to attend an event.
- Other activities fall by the wayside because of your devotion to work. You used to jog in the morning before work, but now you get up early to get to the office instead.
- Your work habits are harming your health. Maybe you aren't taking time to eat well or exercise anymore and you have gained weight as a result