Working long hours can be detrimental to your health. According to 2017 statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, full and part-time workers in the United States work an average of 40 hours a week. Working more than that has been associated with negative health consequences, while working fewer hours each week can help make you healthier, according to the Langone Health research center at New York University.
Here are four ways that a shorter workweek could help improve your health:
- Lowered stress levels: Research published in the Journal of Psychological Medicine found that working more than 55 hours a week was associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Improved sleep: Lack of sleep can result in impaired physical performance, and memory and information-processing difficulties. Getting the right amount of sleep can improve your mental and physical health.
- Improved cardiovascular health: Working less can reduce the risk of coronary artery disease.
- More time with loved ones: They can help combat depression and inspire you to engage in beneficial leisure and fitness activities.
