EY employee’s tragic death sheds light on workplace stress: Tips to safeguard your health amid job pressures

PTC News Desk: The glorification of ‘Hustle Culture’ is taking a severe toll on the mental and physical health of corporate employees, leading to issues like anxiety, depression, and heart problems. The tragic death of a 26-year-old chartered accountant at Ernst and Young (EY) in Pune has sparked widespread concern about the dangerous effects of toxic work environments.

The young woman passed away just four months after joining the company, and her mother blamed the “workload, new environment, and long hours” in a letter addressed to the India head of EY. This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the need to prioritize health over relentless work pressure.

In an interview with Dr. Rajiv Passey, Senior Consultant in Cardiology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, discussed the growing issue of work-related stress. “Work-related stress is a significant psychosocial risk factor, especially in today’s fast-paced, competitive corporate world. Not only does it affect mental well-being, but it also has serious implications for physical health, particularly regarding heart disease. Understanding how stress impacts health is crucial for both individuals and organisations,” he said.

How Stress Impacts Health

Dr. Passey explained that chronic stress triggers the body’s “fight or flight” response, leading to an increase in heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Over time, these physiological changes contribute to a range of health problems, including cardiovascular diseases, digestive issues, and a weakened immune system.

Stress can also lead to unhealthy behaviors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption, all of which are risk factors for major health issues.

A study published in Social Science & Medicine revealed that high job strain is linked to increased cholesterol levels after five years, while an imbalance between effort and reward in the workplace leads to higher body mass index (BMI) after 10 years. These findings underscore the long-term risks of work-related stress on physical health.

Symptoms of Work-Related Stress

Dr. Passey highlighted common symptoms of work-related stress, such as fatigue, anxiety, and irritability, which can decrease productivity and increase the risk of serious health conditions like heart attacks and strokes. “Addressing stress early is critical to preventing long-term health problems,” he emphasised.

Managing Stress at Work

Dr. Passey recommended several strategies to help manage stress and protect overall health:

• Exercise Regularly: Engaging in physical activity is an excellent way to manage stress and boost cardiovascular health.
• Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation and deep-breathing exercises can calm the mind and reduce stress levels.
• Seek Support: Building a network of support from friends, family, or colleagues can provide emotional relief.
• Prioritise Sleep: Getting enough rest is essential for both mental and physical health.
• Set Boundaries: Learning to say no and managing workloads effectively can prevent burnout.

This tragic event and the rise in stress-related health problems point to the urgent need for a shift in workplace culture, where mental and physical well-being must be prioritised over relentless productivity and “hustle” ideals.

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