Have You Taken Your Lunch Break Today?

Nowadays most workers would agree that there aren’t enough hours in a day. And, as a result, work–life balance has fallen victim to the demands of the Australian workplace.

Even with increasing use of technology and a focus on streamlining production lines, employees are choosing to skip lunch breaks and continue working long past official office hours.

A survey conducted by The Australia Institute and beyondblue found that 3.8 million people routinely don’t take their lunch break, with half saying it was because they are ‘too busy’. 

Not surprisingly, work-related stress is the second most common compensated illness, according to the Better Health Channel.

Long hours, a heavy workload, lack of proper resources and job insecurity can all trigger stress, with symptoms such as sleeplessness, depression, anxiety, mood swings and dependencies. 

At the other end of the spectrum, underworked employees are also susceptible to poor mental health, suffering from anxiety, feeling demoralised and worrying about their financial security.

To help reclaim your sanity, this Wednesday is national Go Home on Time Day. Brought to you by The Australia Institute and beyondblue, Go Home on Time Day highlights the correlation between working conditions and mental health and the many issues facing today’s workers. 

So sign up your work and get involved! Whether you hold a morning tea or yoga class or put on a lunchtime spread, starting the conversation about work–life balance is the first step to achieving it. 

To find out more go to www.gohomeontimeday.org.au.