Workaholics: Recognizing Work Addiction

What is a workaholic?

A workaholic exhibits an uncontrollable urge to work incessantly, often at the expense of personal relationships, health, and overall well-being. ^[1] Unlike those who work long hours due to necessity, workaholics feel an emotional dependence on work. ^[2]

Technology, such as smartphones, more than ever blurs the lines between personal and professional life, making it easier to slip into an unhealthy relationship with work. However, work addiction has been studied for decades. ^[2]

Work addiction and being a workaholic are often used interchangeably, but in some contexts, they are not exactly the same. Work addiction is a compulsive need to work with negative consequences to one's overall health, whereas workaholism is considered a positive trait in some contexts. ^[2]

However, societal views and perceived rewards associated with workaholism and its positive perception in certain environments are, in fact, what makes work addiction substantially different from other addictions. ^[2] 

People who are more likely to be addicted to work tend to be impulsive and show traits of compulsive behavior. They may also rely on inefficient work habits and struggle to maintain healthy social relationships.^[3]

A study found a positive association between people with Type A personality and work addiction, more so in demanding work environments. ^[4] Thus, both personal and situational factors might contribute to work addiction.

Symptoms of work addiction

Specific behavioral patterns indicate work addiction. ^[2] Common symptoms include:

• Preoccupation with work: Constantly thinking about work, even during leisure time
• Inability to disconnect: Difficulty relaxing or engaging in non-work-related activities
• Neglecting personal life: Sacrificing family time, hobbies, and social interactions for work. Work addiction is often associated with increased difficulties in personal and intimate relationships ^[1]
• Emotional distress: Experiencing guilt, anxiety, or irritability when not working
• Health issues: Suffering from stress-related ailments due to excessive work habits

These symptoms often lead to a cycle where the individual feels compelled to work more, perpetuating the addiction.

Bergen Work Addiction Scale (BWAS) self-assessment

The Bergen Work Addiction Scale (BWAS) is a tool designed to assess work addiction. BWAS comprises seven statements reflecting various aspects of work addiction, such as:

1. You think of how you can free up more time to work
2. You spend much more time working than initially intended
3. You work to reduce feelings of guilt, anxiety, helplessness, or depression
4. Others have told you to cut down on work without success
5. You feel stressed when you are unable to work
6. You deprioritize hobbies, exercise, or social interactions due to work
7. Work negatively affects your health

Scoring high on multiple statements may indicate a work addiction that requires intervention ^[5]

Work addiction and burnout

Work addiction often leads to burnout, a state of physical and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. ^[2][6] Burnout manifests as:

• Chronic fatigue
• Reduced performance
• Cynicism or detachment from work
• Increased irritability or anxiety

Unlike work addiction, burnout can make individuals withdraw from work altogether, leading to prolonged absenteeism, depression, and physical health issues. Left untreated, it can have severe mental and physical consequences. ^[6]

Workaholics and substance use

There is a documented link between work addiction and substance use disorders. ^[7] Many individuals use stimulants (like caffeine, ADHD medication, or cocaine) to keep up with high workloads. Others turn to alcohol or sedatives to relax after work.

Studies suggest that workaholics are more likely to develop unhealthy coping mechanisms, which can lead to dependence or addiction. If work dominates your life to the point where you rely on substances to function, it may be time to reassess your relationship with work.

Toxic work environments and overworking

Some workplaces encourage work addiction by glorifying long hours and excessive commitment. ^[8] Toxic work environments may include:

• Unrealistic expectations (always being available, even on weekends)
• Lack of boundaries (answering emails late at night)
• A culture of competition (where overworking is praised)
• Fear of job loss (forcing employees to overcommit)

These factors push individuals toward work addiction and burnout. Recognizing these toxic patterns is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Related: Drugs and Alcohol in the Workplace

Self-help for work addiction

If you suspect you are struggling with work addiction, consider these self-help strategies:

• Set clear work-life boundaries (such as no work emails after 6 PM)
• Schedule time for hobbies and relaxation
• Prioritize physical and mental health (exercise, meditation, therapy)
• Practice saying no to extra work that encroaches on personal time
• Challenge your beliefs about success (happiness is not solely tied to work)

Recovery requires relearning how to find fulfillment outside of work.

Getting professional help for work addiction

For severe cases, professional help is recommended. Therapy—particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—can help change unhealthy work patterns. Support groups like Workaholics Anonymous provide community-based support. If substance use is involved, addiction treatment may be necessary.

Final thoughts

Work addiction is often overlooked because society rewards hard work. However, a job that dominates every aspect of life can lead to burnout, health issues, and strained relationships. Recognizing the problem is the first step toward a healthier balance.

If this article resonates with you, consider taking small steps today to reclaim your time and well-being.