Occupational Neurosis: Exploring Its Causes and Effects
Occupational neurosis (ON) is a term used to describe an illness caused by an individual’s occupation or work environment. It is usually characterized by feelings of distress, tension, anxiety, and/or depression. ON can be caused by a variety of factors in the workplace such as excessive workload, lack of control, long working hours, and inadequate pay. In some cases, ON can lead to physical and mental health problems that can have a lasting impact on an individual’s life. This article aims to explore the causes and effects of occupational neurosis.
Causes of Occupational Neurosis
The causes of ON vary depending on the individual and the work environment. Generally, ON can be caused by a combination of psychological and physiological factors, such as stress, fatigue, lack of control, and inadequate pay.
Stress is one of the most common causes of ON. Common sources of stress in the workplace include long working hours, tight deadlines, lack of control over the work, and inadequate support from colleagues or supervisors. Stress can cause an individual to become overwhelmed and can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
Fatigue is another common cause of ON. Working long hours can lead to fatigue, which can affect an individual’s ability to concentrate and make decisions. It can also lead to physical and mental exhaustion, which can lead to further distress and anxiety.
Lack of control over work and inadequate pay are also contributors to occupational neurosis. When individuals lack control over their work and do not receive adequate compensation for their efforts, they may experience feelings of helplessness and lack of motivation, which can lead to further distress and anxiety.
Effects of Occupational Neurosis
ON can have a negative impact on an individual’s mental and physical health. Common effects of ON include feelings of distress, anxiety, and depression; physical symptoms such as headaches and fatigue; and difficulty concentrating. In some cases, ON can lead to more serious mental health problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or substance abuse.
ON can also have an effect on an individual’s relationships and career. Individuals with ON may experience difficulty in maintaining personal relationships and may be less productive at work. This can lead to job loss or difficulty in finding new employment.
Conclusion
Occupational neurosis is a serious illness that can have a lasting impact on an individual’s life. It is important to recognize the causes and effects of ON and to seek help from a mental health professional if necessary.
References
American Psychological Association. (2020). Occupational stress. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/occupational-stress
Fernandez-Mendoza, J., Sullivan, J. D., & Bixler, E. O. (2014). The epidemiology of occupational neurosis: A systematic review. Annals of General Psychiatry, 13(1), 7. https://doi.org/10.1186/1744-859X-13-7
Kumar, S., & Srivastava, A. (2013). Occupational neurosis: An insight. Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 17(2), 75-78.
Rice, M., & Milliken, F. J. (1999). Occupational stress: A review and critique of theory, research, and applications. Annual Review of Psychology, 50(1), 591–619. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.psych.50.1.591