The Toll of Work Stress on the Body—And Why We Need to Rethink the 40-Hour Workweek

In a world that glorifies hustle culture, overwork has become the norm. But what if we challenged the assumption that working 40+ hours a week is necessary or even productive? Chronic work stress not only drains creativity but also wreaks havoc on the body– which is detrimental to mental health professionals, artists, and ALL of society. The toll on our health and the stifling of our creativity are significant, and it is time to rethink how we structure our work lives and begin normalizing schedules that honor productivity and well-being.

How Work Stress Impacts the Body

When we push ourselves beyond our limits, our nervous system suffers. Chronic stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, which, over time, can contribute to anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and even immune system suppression. Studies show that prolonged work-related stress negatively impacts heart health, leading to cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of burnout—a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion.

From a cognitive perspective, stress impairs memory, decision-making, and creative thinking. In other words, when we work beyond our limits, we harm our health and become less effective at the work we are trying to sustain.

Creativity and Overwork Don’t Mix

Stress is especially detrimental for those in creative fields. Creativity flourishes in a relaxed state, where the brain can make unexpected connections and tap into deeper wells of inspiration. Overwork stifles this process, leading to creative blocks, frustration, and burnout. The stereotype of the overworked, sleep-deprived genius is simply a myth—sustainable creativity requires rest, space, and balance.

The Push for Shorter Workweeks

Research is increasingly proving that less can be more regarding productivity. Countries and companies experimenting with four-day workweeks have found that employees are happier, healthier, and just as (if not more) productive than those following the traditional five-day model. Shorter workweeks reduce stress, increase job satisfaction, and allow for more personal time—all while maintaining or even improving work output. This shift towards shorter workweeks offers a promising future for work-life balance and productivity.

Reclaiming Our Time: Working with Our Natural Rhythms

One of the biggest misconceptions in modern work culture is that humans are machines capable of endlessly churning out labor without rest. In reality, our energy levels fluctuate throughout the day and week. Honoring these natural rhythms—whether through shorter workdays, flexible schedules, or prioritizing deep work over busy work—allows us to be more productive in less time.

For artists and mental health professionals, this is particularly relevant. The ability to set our schedules and break free from rigid work structures can lead to increased creativity, better mental health, and a more fulfilling career.

Mental health professionals and artists have a unique opportunity to lead this shift, advocating for sustainable work practices that benefit individuals and society. For those in private practice, we can begin to model this shift. Having the ability to set your schedule or allowing your employees to work a flexible schedule can contribute to your overall well-being and success. We can ease up on strict schedules and begin to operate with the inner knowing that our energy levels fluctuate. Rest=Productivity. When you feel depleted or notice employees are feeling down, ease up and trust that productivity will flourish once you recharge your inner batteries. For those with the autonomy to shape their work schedules, the challenge becomes permitting ourselves to step away from the grind. Instead of feeling guilty for not working long hours, we can see rest as a crucial part of the creative and professional process.

The Need for Cultural Change

It is time to challenge the deep-seated and inherited belief that success is measured by how much we work. Instead, let us all strive for a model that values balance, creativity, and well-being. Normalizing that we are not machines opens the door to a healthier, more creative, and ultimately more human way of working.

by Dr. Amy Vail and Alli Fischenich