Do you really know? What is Karoshi, the dangerous overwork epidemic?
Jan 18, 2025
Explore the alarming phenomenon of Karoshi, or 'death by overwork,' which has roots in Japan's post-WWII economic boom. Discover how extreme stress and long working hours can lead to sudden health failures. The podcast examines the cultural implications and the global spread of this issue, and highlights the urgent need for awareness and preventive measures. Engaging and informative, it sheds light on the lives affected by relentless work demands.
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Karoshi Defined
- Karoshi, "death by overwork," is a critical issue stemming from extreme stress and long hours.
- It manifests as sudden deaths from strokes, heart attacks, or suicides (karojisatsu).
Post-War Overwork Culture
- Post-WWII Japan's rapid economic growth led to a culture of overwork.
- This "economic miracle" put immense pressure on workers, sacrificing their well-being.
Karoshi's Origin
- The term "karoshi" emerged in 1982, coined by Japanese doctors.
- They observed numerous sudden deaths and suicides due to overwork.