Journalism of Courage
Long hours at work,looming deadlines and a fiercely competitive environment have come to define urban careers across the country,and not the least in Pune,which is a hub for corporate activity. With such impossible demands on their time,young professionals inevitably end up choosing a few extra hours of work instead of a full nights sleep,or a quick and convenient burger instead of a sit-down balanced lunch.
The combination of stress and unhealthy lifestyle is leading to an increase in cases of early onset of cardiovascular diseases,strokes,hypertension and mental and emotional distress with symptoms such as anxiety and depression. Women are also facing severe problems due to rising stress levels,causing hormonal changes and leading to gynecological problems such as heavy menstrual bleeding.
Apart from physiological effects,fast-paced lifestyle and competitive workplaces are affecting people emotionally and psychologically as well. Not only are the stress levels high,the constant rat race for appreciation and progress at work leads to frustration and burnout. Long hours at work means less time to socialise and unwind.
According to a survey by Cadbury Connect,a large number of professionals are overworked and cut off from the social world due to dependency on technology and tend to feel lonely. About 63 per cent of people were found to work harder than usual to get better recognition and reward,and 77 per cent do not share their feelings with others and are hence unable to let out their emotions. Experts warn that crises may begin with something as basic as stress at work,and when joined with little or no psychological support,can even lead to suicide.
