Karoshi (過労死) or death from overwork is not uncommon in Japan. This happens due to its work culture and various other factors. We have already written several articles discussing work in Japan, but today we will specifically talk about karoshi.
The main medical causes of deaths from karoshi are heart attacks and strokes due to stress. There are also malnutrition and suicide where work is one of the main causes. Japan is the only country with a separate category to report deaths from overwork. Karoshi has been part of public consciousness since 1980.
What causes Karoshi?
The main factor that causes death at work is overtime. Although the government or some companies set a limit on overtime hours, many end up exceeding it even if they are not being compensated. Some people in the corporate world even work when they get home simply for the pleasure of finishing the job quickly.
The culture of overworking emerged after World War II when people were encouraged to work 12 hours a day for up to 7 days a week to boost the country’s economy. Nowadays, this is not necessary, but 25% of overtime still draws a lot of attention.
It is not just stress or health problems that cause death from work, but also suicide. Unemployment is responsible for 57% of all suicides, with work-related stress (such as prolonged overtime), work fatigue, and work-related depression being the other main factors leading to suicide. It is worth noting that there is no shortage of jobs in Japan, but simply losing a position or job leads a Japanese person to wish to give up on life.
There are several cultural factors that make a person work more than they should. Things like pride, honor, shame, and the desire to do their best end up causing Japanese people to work more than they should without even realizing it. Japanese people who exceed 80 hours of overtime per month are subject to karoshi. Even those Japanese who do not work excessively end up neglecting their health. They simply leave work and go drink or stay up all night on the computer, leaving no time to rest.
When will Karoshi end?
It is sad to say, but karoshi will not disappear anytime soon. The government has imposed fines and set limits, but unfortunately, the problem is the Japanese desire to work. Some companies have tried to combat the phenomenon with various programs, but the change must start at a cultural level, which can take decades. As long as the Japanese continue doing excessive overtime voluntarily, cases of Karoshi will continue to happen. And you? What do you think about this subject? We await your comment.
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