How Overworking Affects Health Care Workers: Surprising Structural Changes in the Brain Revealed

On May 19, 2025, a study highlighted the alarming effects of overwork on healthcare workers’ brains. Published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine, the research suggests that long hours can lead to structural changes in areas tied to thinking and emotions.

Led by Dr. Wonpil Jang from Yonsei University in Seoul, the study focused on 110 healthcare workers. Among them, 32 workers who clocked over 52 hours a week were compared to 78 who worked fewer hours. Results revealed significant changes in brain regions connected to executive functions and emotional control.

For instance, the overworked group’s left caudal middle frontal gyrus increased in size by 19% compared to their less-stressed counterparts. Further analysis showed notable volume changes in 17 brain areas, particularly in the middle frontal gyrus, insula, and superior temporal gyrus. Interestingly, the more hours worked each week, the greater the brain volume alterations in these regions.

Dr. Jang and the team noted, “These findings provide novel neurobiological evidence linking prolonged working hours to structural brain changes. More research is necessary to understand the long-term impacts of overwork on our cognitive and emotional well-being.”

This study coincides with a growing conversation about work-life balance, especially in healthcare. Recent surveys indicate that 68% of healthcare professionals feel overwhelmed and burned out from their workloads. The ripple effects of overwork extend beyond the individual, impacting patient care and workplace dynamics.

Additionally, many users on social media platforms are sharing their experiences. Hashtags like #HealthcareBurnout are trending, with workers expressing frustration over demanding schedules and advocating for better work conditions. The conversation is not just about personal health; it’s about maintaining a functional healthcare system.

As we navigate through the aftermath of a global pandemic, understanding the connection between work demands and mental health has never been more crucial. For further insights, you can view the full study here.

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