Studies show long work hours can negatively impact personal relationships, life goals and overall happiness, which is why having work-life balance is so important. Work-life balance describes how a person divides their energy between work responsibilities and personal life. Maintaining this balance can be difficult — especially when work tasks spill into personal time, or personal concerns distract from work.
Considering the number of competing demands at work and home, Mental Health America has noted it’s not surprising that more than one in four Americans describe themselves as “super stressed,” which is neither healthy nor sustainable.
In the short term, an unbalanced work-life can cause stress, which can lead to irritability, depression, reduced productivity and affect relationships with others.
Over time, chronic stress causes wear and tear on the body and mind, which may result in a variety of physical, psychological or behavioral symptoms. Physical symptoms of stress due to a lack of work-life balance may include:
- Aches and pains
- Weakened immune system
- Stress rash
- Chest pain or a racing heartbeat
- Exhaustion or trouble sleeping
- Headaches, dizziness or shaking
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Muscle tension or jaw clenching
- Stomach or digestive problems
- Sexual health problems
Chronic stress can also lead to emotional and mental symptoms such as sadness, anxiety, depression and panic attacks. Many people with chronic stress try different things to cope.
Unfortunately, some of those things may become habit-forming and have negative impacts on health, such as:
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol use
- Substance abuse
- Gambling
- Overeating or developing an eating disorder
- Compulsive behaviors like shopping, sex, or internet use
Keeping work-life balance top of mind can help mitigate these issues before they begin. Practicing daily wellness habits can help manage stress and improve overall well-being. Try these tips to help achieve a healthier work-life balance:
- Eat well, exercise and get enough sleep every day
- Try relaxation techniques like meditation and breathing exercises
- Stay positive and practice gratitude
- Be flexible and accept not everything can be controlled
- When working, take short breaks throughout the day and take time off when needed
- Set healthy boundaries with others and learn to “say no” to avoid overload
- Nurture relationships that support happiness and emotional well-being
Accessing Care
Sutter Health Plan members have access to resources and support, which may help to maintain work-life in balance. The Health Coaching Program offers members support for living a healthier lifestyle at no out-of-pocket cost. Members work one-on-one with a trained, personal health coach by phone and work together to set practical goals, align actions and overcome obstacles. The program also provides support for weight management and quitting tobacco.
For more information, call 844-987-6095 or visit the Health and Wellness site accessed through the Member Portal.
Members may also self-refer to confidential in-person or virtual visits with a participating behavioral health provider through U.S. Behavioral Health Plan, California (USBHPC) by calling 855-202-0984 or visiting liveandworkwell.com.