Karoshi: Symptoms and Consequences of Chronic Overwork
Kacper Nowak
2026-03-23
6 min. read
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Work serves as one of the fundamental activities in almost every individual's life. It not only provides sustenance but also enables the realization of ambitions. However, excessive concentration on work and devoting too much time to it can result in overlooking other crucial life domains. In contemporary times, we increasingly encounter the problem of workaholism. Excessive workload can promptly lead to serious indications, including lethal repercussions related to overwork.
Karōshi: Death from Overwork – A Cultural and Societal Phenomenon in Japan
Karōshi is a Japanese-derived term that refers to death resulting from extreme occupational exhaustion. While not a formal medical diagnosis, the mechanism of death in karōshi cases typically involves acute cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction or stroke. The concept was first identified and named in the 1970s in Japan, where a deeply ingrained work culture—characterized by unconditional dedication to professional duties, often at the expense of personal well-being—creates an environment conducive to such fatalities. Within Japanese society, there exists a troubling romanticization of overwork, where death from exhaustion is sometimes perceived as a "noble" or "admirable" sacrifice. Research indicates that victims of karōshi are predominantly individuals working over 60 hours per week, consistently accumulating more than 50 hours of overtime monthly, and neglecting a significant portion of their entitled leave. Notably, this phenomenon rarely affects lower-level employees; instead, it primarily impacts managers and high-ranking professionals who have ascended to their positions through years of relentless labor. Death from karōshi is frequently sudden, occurring without prior warning signs. Estimates suggest that up to 10,000 Japanese individuals may die annually from overwork, making it a critical public health and societal issue.
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