People who work more than 49 hours a week are significantly more likely to turn to alcohol than those who work a standard 40 hours, according to a new study by the World Health Organization that examined the physical and mental health risks associated with overwork.
As experts note, the habit of staying late at work or forced overtime gradually forms a tendency to increased alcohol consumption. According to clinical observations, workers who exceed the 49-hour limit drink an average of one glass of wine or a mug of beer more than those who adhere to the classic “nine to five” schedule. Experts explain: for many workaholics, alcohol becomes a kind of “reward” for a busy week.
The authors of the paper emphasize that the current economic instability and rising cost of living are forcing more people to take on additional jobs or work overtime, which increases the risk that employees will more often turn to alcohol as a quick way to relieve stress.
The WHO study is not unique. Previously, scientists have already established a similar connection: people who work more than 48 hours a week are significantly more likely to suffer from excessive alcohol consumption. A recent meta-analysis of 14 studies involving more than 105,000 volunteers confirmed these data. In particular, it was found that workers who work from 49 to 54 hours consume an average of 17.7 grams more pure alcohol - this is about one large glass of wine or a mug of beer.
WHO warns that such trends require the attention of employers and health systems: regular overload not only increases stress levels, but can also contribute to the formation of harmful habits that lead to serious health consequences.
