New research published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine suggests that regularly working long hours, specifically 52 or more per week, may do more than leave us feeling exhausted. It could lead to structural changes in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for memory, decision-making and emotional regulation.
What the Research Shows
Researchers examined MRI scans from a group of health workers and found that those working excessive hours showed significant changes in brain regions linked to attention, executive function and self-awareness. One area, the left caudal middle frontal gyrus, which plays a key role in working memory and language processing, was found to be 19% larger in individuals who are overworked. While this might sound like a positive change, researchers believe it may reflect the brain’s attempt to adapt to chronic cognitive stress.
These findings underscore what many of us may already suspect: consistently working long hours can affect far more than our productivity or mood; it may also alter how our brains function.
A Culture of Overwork
In the UK, this research hits particularly close to home. A recent YouGov survey for the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) found that nearly a quarter of UK workers regularly exceed the legal weekly maximum of 48 hours of work. Meanwhile, 44% reported that working beyond contracted hours is simply part of their workplace culture. Perhaps even more telling, more than half of respondents said they routinely check emails and messages outside of working hours, reinforcing the idea that “switching off” has become more of an aspiration than a reality.
Experts have warned that this ‘always on’ expectation is contributing to a culture of chronic overwork. While some may view long hours as a badge of commitment, emerging evidence suggests that it could compromise both cognitive health and emotional resilience in the long run.
A Global Concern
The World Health Organisation and the International Labour Organisation have also raised the alarm, stating that long working hours are responsible for approximately one-third of the total work-related burden of disease globally. In light of this, researchers and workplace health advocates are calling for urgent action to protect workers from the long-term effects of excessive workloads.
Practical Ways to Combat Overworking
For employers, it starts with recognising overwork as an occupational health risk. This means moving beyond token gestures and taking meaningful steps, such as removing the unspoken expectation of always being available, supporting the right to disconnect, and regularly reviewing workloads as part of risk assessments.
For individuals, it’s about setting boundaries and knowing your rights. If checking emails outside of office hours has become a daily habit, or if your standard week regularly creeps past 50 hours, it might be time to reassess whether your working life is sustainable.
Need Advice?
If you’re an employer seeking to promote healthier work practices, our team can help. Contact us today for advice and practical solutions to reduce risk and enhance employee wellbeing. Contact us on 02920 853731 or email tcms@thomas-carroll.co.uk.
