FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
We've got an overworked labor force operating in an under-performing economy... and it could be affecting our health.
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A new study released by researchers in Spain finds that working for more than 40 hours a week leaves employees six times more likely to suffer long-term exhaustion, irritability and a lack of interest in their work and non-work lives. It's something called "burnout syndrome." And some of us have been suffering from it for years.
Workers who feel "under challenged" on the job, left to do what they feel are brainless, monotonous tasks, are also at risk of developing burnout syndrome. So are people who have stayed in the same job too long: Those with more than 16 years service in the same position are five times more at risk of developing burnout syndrome than colleagues with less than four years on a particular job.
With the economy in the state it's in, it's no surprise this is a growing problem. It has the potential to become an epidemic.
The Spanish researchers found that having a family, partner or a spouse to go home to at night helps people deal with burnout. I guess there is some benefit to being able to complain to someone when you get home.
But where does it end? Careers are getting longer, and retiring at 65 is not a reality for many of us. With 9.2 percent unemployment in this country, those of us with a job are lucky to have one. Some of us need to work more than one job just to pay the bills each month.
Here’s my question to you: Do you feel like you're a member of the burnt-out generation?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Cheryl in South Carolina:
Definitely, Jack. I am lucky enough to have a "recession proof" job, but I'm working much longer hours for less money than I made 10 years ago. We're about $50,000 upside down on our mortgage and there is no relief in sight. Burnt out is one way to describe it.
C.W. in Kansas City, Missouri:
Stomped on, run over, short changed, media manipulated, marginalized, confused, lied to, marketing targeted, sensory overloaded, trivialized, devalued, exhausted and yes, burnt out.
Peggy:
Age 64 and yes! Did everything right, worked hard, raised a family, paid the mortgage, paid the taxes. For that effort, I now feel like a hostage to the nonsense that is going on in Washington D.C. and I am feeling like I need to spend my time worrying about the collapse of the government. I am tired of seeing the powerful run roughshod over the rest of us. I am so sad for my country right now, and so worried about my children and grandchildren's future.
Mark in Oklahoma City:
Jack, I'm a teacher. I love working with kids. I love to teach. But, I am tired, very tired, and guess what - I ain't that old and I can't retire for ten more years. It is sad for me, my students and even my dog that I come home to every evening notices that I am just not the playful, happy person I once was. This was a GREAT question to ask and I just hope you don't get "burned out" any time soon. Your segments often give me something to smile about.
Jim in Denver:
Burnt out with work and trying to stay a step ahead of the bill collectors. You betcha! I'm working hard, but wage stagnation and increased costs for other benefits and household items are eating my lunch financially. I wish the politicians would realize the Middle Class needs a bit of relief here and that the 2 percent need to share in the pain we are feeling.
Curtis in Philadelphia:
Wow, déjà vu Jack! It's like you're my guidance counselor and it's 1981 all over again. Total flashback.