Work-Related Stress is More Damaging than You Think

by Brad Palubicki

Any job can be stressful, and all of us experience some pressure at work from time to time. However, when stress becomes a daily part of your work schedule, it is poised to have serious adverse effects on your physical and emotional health.

A new study by Harvard Business School and Stanford University found that occupational stress might be just as bad as secondhand smoke! Building upon the evidence from 228 other studies, the researchers calculated that excess workloads increased chances of an illness by 35 percent. People who regularly work overtime become almost 20 percent more likely to die prematurely. The research also found that professionals who are constantly scared to lose their job are twice as likely to experience health complications.

But the negative effects don’t stop there. Experiencing too much stress at work might actually stop you from succeeding in your career. As NuMale Medical Center Founder and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Christopher Asandra explains in his recent Askmen article, stress causes an increase in cortisol (stress hormone) levels, which blocks the positive effects of testosterone on the body. According to recent research, says Dr. Asandra, “men with lower testosterone or higher cortisol levels are demonstrably less likely to serve in leadership positions.”

Work-related stress is also a major contributor to erectile dysfunction in men. Having your testosterone and other hormone levels checked regularly is important for determining a number of potential health concerns. Fortunately, many of the negative effects of hormonal disbalance can be easily reversed with the help of a trained specialist. Hormonal therapy requires a precisely calibrated approach and extensive knowledge of the subject so make sure you consult a physician who specializes in that area.

In the meantime, try to keep your work stress under control: make sure you get enough sleep, exercise regularly and stop thinking about work once you leave the office.

For more articles and insight, visit my website at http://www.bradpalubicki.com and follow me on Twitter (@Brad_Palubicki) and Google+.