New research shows that working too many hours physically modifies the brain structure

New research has shown that being overloaded can physically change the brain.

Researchers in South Korea have decided to understand how long hours of work have an impact on the cognitive and emotional health of employees.

The study, published in the journal Occupational & Environmental Medicine, estimated the brain volume of 110 health workers who were classified by the overwork categories – working more or equal to 52 hours per week – and not on work.

Low calories diets linked to a surprising mental health effect, show new research

The results revealed that overworked individuals had “significant changes” in the brain regions associated with executive function and emotional regulation.

The co-author of the Wanhyung Lee study, MD, PH.D., assistant professor at the Chung-Ang University College of Seoul, told Fox News Digital that it was one of the first studies to examine the relationship between prolonged working hours and structural brain changes.

New research has shown that overworked individuals have “important changes” in the main regions of the brain. (istock)

“We had initially had no clear expectations concerning what we could discover,” he revealed. “Therefore, we found the results particularly intriguing.”

The researcher noted that an increase in brain volume associated with cognitive and emotional functions was an “unexpected and fascinating” observation of the study.

“These results open up new questions and highlight the complexity of how chronic professional stress could affect brain health, highlighting the need for new detailed surveys,” he said.

“ I am a neurosurgeon – that’s what I eat for a breakfast in brain health ” ‘

The increase in the volume of the brain as observed has been found in the regions associated with executive functions, said Lee, such as memory, decision -making and attention – as well as emotional regulation, such as stress management and emotional stability.

Although these changes may initially reflect the need to manage “continuous professional stress”, according to Lee, there could be potential risks of prolonged or chronic alterations.

This could include neural tension, inflammation or unsuitable reorganization.

Long-hour work could potentially have a long-term impact on brain function, suggested a co-author and teacher (not in the photo). (istock)

“Although our current study cannot determine the long-term impacts in a conclusive manner, continuous exposure without sufficient recovery can negatively affect cognitive and emotional health,” he said.

Lee has urged employees who work excessive hours to recognize that chronic stress can cause physical brain changes, not just psychological complications. This emphasizes the need to manage the workload, prioritize rest and maintain emotional balance.

“At the same time, individual efforts alone are not sufficient; organizational support and proactive management by companies to create healthy working conditions are essential to protect the health of the brain of employees,” he said.

Negative thoughts could change your brain surprisingly, the study suggests

“With the rapid advancement of smartphones and digital technology, work extends more and more beyond traditional office hours in personal time, making chronic overwork more common and less visible,” continued Lee. “Employers and decision -makers must also recognize and approach these evolving work models to support lasting work environments.”

The researcher recognized the progressive movement towards the “overwork society”. He urged employees to “actively set the limits, ensure regular rest and recovery, practice stress management and defend the workplace policies that clearly define and respect the healthy limits of working hours”.

There is no “question” too much mental stress can change the brain, said a neurosurgeon. (istock)

Dr. Paul Sapphier, neurosurgeon and founder of coaxial neurosurgery specialists in New Jersey, was not involved in the study, but commented the results of an interview with Fox News Digital.

Sandying considered the interesting study, but not too surprising “.

Click here to register for our Health Newsletter

“There is no doubt that mental stress and fatigue, with a deprivation of sleep, anxiety, long periods of intense concentration, etc., lead to an impairment of the release of neurotransmitters and additional physiological changes,” he said. “It can ultimately lead to anatomical changes in the brain.”

Experts have known that the professions that require a “clear cognitive conscience” with “zero margin of error” – like airline pilots and health professionals – benefit from “consecutive working hours to reduce errors”, said the neurosurrian.

“It is essential to take care of your mental health and well-being if you want to be a productive employee,” said a career expert. (istock)

Kyle Elliott, technological career coach based in California and mental health expert, also weighed during a separate interview with Fox News Digital.

“It is essential to take care of your mental health and well-being if you want to be a productive employee,” he said.

“The negligence of your mental health can not only affect your ability to work effectively, but also a negative impact on your physical health and your longevity.”

For more health items, visit Foxnews.com/health

Elliot encouraged employees to defend their needs.

“Do not be afraid to speak (at work or employers) if you have to take a break or leave to protect your mental or physical health,” he said. “Your mind and body will thank you in the long term.”

Click here to obtain the Fox News app

The expert suggested taking smaller measures to preserve mental health and preventing professional exhaustion, such as taking breaks allocated throughout the work day, connecting with people who are safe to share your frustration and limit time on social networks.