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Are you on the verge of overexertion at work?

On Behalf of | Jul 6, 2022 | Workers' Compensation

You do not mind putting in your full effort every time you go to work. Still, if your job duties require you to be at work for more than 40 hours per week, you may be on the verge of overexertion. According to reporting from the CBS affiliate in Los Angeles, 60% of Americans who log between 50 and 59 hours at work are in the same boat.

Overexertion involves more than simply feeling tired. Indeed, it can take a significant toll on your mental and physical well-being. If your overexertion is severe, you may not be able to continue to work. Even worse, it may increase your odds of having a catastrophic workplace accident.

Physical overexertion

Physical overexertion happens when you ask your body to do something it is incapable of doing. This type of overexertion can be either acute, such as lifting an object that is too heavy, or chronic, like trying to stay on your feet for 10 hours per day.

The following may make you more prone to physical overexertion:

  • Poor posture
  • Cramped workspaces
  • Heavy loads
  • Ineffective tools
  • Repetitive motions

Mental overexertion

Just as you can overexert your body, you also can overexert your brain. This happens when you spend too much time working on tasks that eat up your mental energy. Mental overexertion can lead to insomnia, chronic fatigue, anxiety, restlessness and depression.

Whether you have physical or mental overexertion, you may forget to take safety precautions or make dangerous mistakes at work. Consequently, if you are suffering from the effects of overexertion, it is advisable to take a break from work to focus on your physical and mental health.