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Emmy award-winning reporter John Biffar, hosts the local medical series Health Matters which airs on NBC2 News Today weekday mornings between 5-5:30 a.m. and during NBC2 News at 4:00 p.m.
 
 
 

      

Working Overtime
February 20,  2009

A new study suggests that middle-aged people who work long hours have lower scores on mental function tests. Working extensively may also lead to anxiety, depression and irritability.

Lee Physician Group family physician Dr. Rodolfo Perez-Gallardo says, “So it makes it difficult for them to cope with co-workers, customers and clients. And these people can get easily annoyed and upset.” And that’s not a good combination when you’re trying to do the best job for your boss.

Many find that these moods can also follow you home. Dr. Perez-Gallardo adds, “It can make it much more difficult to have personal quality time with the family.” Doctors say that quality time with your family can also be a great way to relieve work stress. If possible, limiting your work hours may be the best option. “That would be great because they also need that balance between work and family. And it’s very important to have that portion of time to spend with the family and we’re talking quality time with the family,” says Dr. Perez-Gallardo.

But if you need some time alone to distress, Dr. Perez-Gallardo has yet another suggestion. “Taking a bubble bath, one bubble bath will help a lot in brining down the stress and anxiety.” We know in these economic times just having a job is important but stay in tune to how those long hours may be affecting your health.