Underload Syndrome

What Is Underload Syndrome?
According to www.medterms.com, the definition of Underload Syndrome is literally being "bored sick." Underload Syndrome was first identified in 2001by Professor Ad Vingerhoets, a Tilberg University psychologist. Underload Syndrome is typically referred to any health problem that seems to be stemmed from a lack of stimulation.

Although Underload Syndrome is sometimes referred to as Leisure Syndrome, they do have one specific difference. Underload Syndrome is related to being bored in the workplace, while Leisure Syndrome is used to describe a workaholic that has difficulty functioning away from work.

Who Gets Underload Syndrome?
Some research suggests that only high-achievers get Underload Syndrome, and of those high aiming individuals, it is only diagnosed in 3% of individuals.

More recent studies of Underload Syndrome by researchers, who presented their findings to a meeting of the American Psychosomatic Society, found that perfectionists, those that carry heavy workloads, and individuals who feel very responsible for their work are more likely to suffer from symptoms of Underload Syndrome.

What Causes Underload Syndrome?
According to the Times Online (February 2, 2003), "when stimulation and challenges are removed, the body stops producing vital hormones such as endorphines, resulting in a subsequent drop in metabolic rate. People then have less energy, a sluggish immune system, and are more susceptible to infection."

It seems that boredom may have the same effect on the human body as stress in some individuals.

What Are The Symptoms Of Underload Syndrome?
Symptoms of Underload Syndrome can include nausea, headaches, agitation, fatigue, depression, and recurrent infections. Typically, the symptoms will appear when the weekend or holidays begin. When the work schedule resumes, the symptoms disappear.

How Can I Prevent Underload Syndrome?
Since Underload Syndrome is caused by being bored, then prevention would be to keep yourself challenged and stimulated. A few options for those with Underload Syndrome would be to ask your boss for more challenging projects or take on additional responsibilities if you are running out of things to do. Sometimes, those that suffer from this disorder will need to seek another job that is more stimulating.

How Does Underload Syndrome Affect Employers?
A research study performed by the University of Northumbria showed that people who are bored tend to take more sick days than their mentally challenged counterparts. Those affected by Underload Syndrome can also have a more difficult time relaxing and may be harder to get along with in the workplace.

If you recognize that you are a perfectionist or carry a heavy workload, there is no need to worry if you are going to get Underload Syndrome, as this disorder is very rare. If you feel that you may be suffering from Underload Syndrome, a consultation with a psychologist is recommended.

Sources:

MedTerms: Underload Syndrome, http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=23527

World Wide Words: Leisure Sickness, http://www.worldwidewords.org/turnsofphrase/tp-lei1.htm

MED Magazine: Leisure Sickness, http://www.macmillandictionaries.com/med-magazine/January2004/15-New-Word-Leisure-Sickness.htm

Times Online: Health: Are You Suffering From Underload, http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/style/article854338.ece