Recently, media reports revealed that Jet Li developed hyperthyroidism due to excessive work pressure. As the year-end approaches and workplace competition intensifies, conditions like insomnia, neurasthenia, cervical spondylosis, hyperthyroidism, and hypertension are increasingly taking a toll on white-collar workers' physical and mental health. How can office professionals mitigate the harm caused by high-pressure environments?Office workers must guard against the onset or worsening of occupational diseases, while companies should pay greater attention to employee health. To address the "year-end psychological panic," adjusting one's mindset is essential.
Every profession has occupational diseases to guard against developing or worsening
China's Occupational Disease Prevention and Control Law clearly defines occupational diseases: these are illnesses contracted by workers in enterprises, institutions, and individual economic organizations during occupational activities due to exposure to dust, radioactive substances, and other toxic or harmful factors.Generally, an occupational disease must meet all four criteria listed in the state-published classification and catalog of occupational diseases. Symptoms such as dust-related ailments and poisoning are particularly common.
Liu Songhuai noted that while the state has specific definitions for occupational diseases—such as illnesses caused by exposure to toxic or radioactive substances—workers in various positions often develop physical ailments like neck or back pain due to high psychological stress. These conditions should also fall under the category of occupational diseases.
Liu believes that common symptoms among white-collar workers—such as insomnia, neck discomfort, and back pain—are often linked to their occupations. "Office workers frequently hunch over or stare at computer screens, which can gradually cause issues in the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, and spinal system." While some symptoms are undoubtedly related to habitual work postures, others stem from the state of mind during work."When work pressure is high and the pace is fast, it's not just the neck or spine that's tense—the entire body is in a state of tension and anxiety. After maintaining this posture for an extended period, people often feel mentally exhausted and physically drained."
He recommends that individuals engaged in long-term office work prioritize protecting their cervical and lumbar vertebrae. For instance, performing appropriate warm-up exercises before starting work, or engaging in stress-relieving activities like massage after intense periods, can be beneficial. "Every profession may carry its own occupational hazards, as the nature of the work itself can impact specific body parts. Therefore, it's crucial to mentally prepare in advance and take preventive measures early on. This approach significantly benefits both our physical and mental well-being."
Companies Should Prioritize Employee Mental Health by Establishing Vent Rooms
With high-pressure lifestyles common among white-collar workers today, various stress-relief services have emerged—from escape rooms and scream rooms to "insult services" available on Taobao. Liu Songhuai notes these approaches hold psychological validity."We all experience negative emotions. When you're persistently unhappy about something, it's unbearable if you don't find someone to confide in or express those feelings. That's why we sometimes need a medium to vent that negative energy."
Liu Songhuai advises that companies should prioritize employee mental health: "Provide opportunities for communication, organize competitions or outings, and if feasible, establish venting rooms—all of these are beneficial."He emphasized, "It's crucial to ensure that emotional release doesn't negatively impact others."
Liu noted that music therapy can also serve as an effective stress-relief method. Addressing the claim that "listening to classical music like Mozart promotes relaxation," he explained, "Music therapists tailor compositions to different individuals. Generally, pieces by renowned composers can have positive effects, but they aren't universally applicable."
White-Collar Workers Face Marriage Pressure and Year-End Psychological Anxiety Requiring Mindset Adjustment
As the year draws to a close, many white-collar workers suffer from year-end psychological anxiety. Some feel embarrassed to discuss issues like the lack of hope for raises or promotions, while others face the annual challenge of arranged meetings.Liu Songhuai noted that some white-collar workers experience psychological panic at year's end, particularly those with limited savings or perceived career shortcomings. "These individuals seek validation of their success through others' judgments. Yet after a year of hard work without significant financial gain, coupled with substantial holiday expenses, their anxiety intensifies or gives way to feelings of failure as the New Year approaches."
He emphasized that such individuals must adjust their mindset. "Each person must recognize that every experience is a unique and valuable asset. Even if financial savings are minimal, one should assess gains in other areas—whether connections were built, experience accumulated, or personal goals achieved. Understanding one's overall accomplishments for the year is far more significant than monetary gains alone."
Liu Songhuai pointed out that white-collar workers who set extremely high expectations for themselves while also being overly concerned about external evaluations will face greater pressure than others. This group needs to redefine their self-worth. Many prominent figures faced numerous challenges during their entrepreneurial or career beginnings—it's all part of the process. "We must view this journey correctly, treating it as a stepping stone toward life success rather than completely dismissing it.The Spring Festival must still be celebrated, and returning home remains essential. If returning is truly impossible, we must at least provide our parents with a reasonable explanation."
Regarding the pressure on white-collar workers to marry and the issue of arranged meetings during the holiday, he noted that while many are labeled "leftover women," they should not mentally categorize themselves as "leftovers." Correcting such perceptions is crucial for approaching arranged meetings with the right mindset."The term 'leftover women' isn't a label; it describes a state of temporary singleness due to the absence of suitable partners. Even when parents arrange meetings, the final decision rests with the individuals themselves. As long as they maintain control, it's not truly forced marriage." He believes white-collar workers should approach arranged meetings with a positive, open mindset and confidence, which may lead to potential connections.