Workaholism and mental health support

Workaholism is caused by a mix of factors, not any one thing, including perfectionism, fear of failure, and using work to cope with anxiety or difficult emotions. Cultural and workplace pressure to be constantly productive can also reinforce the pattern over time. If you feel like workaholism is affecting your mental health, Charlie Health can help.

Researchers have developed self-assessment tools, sometimes called a workaholism quiz, like the Bergen Work Addiction Scale, to help measure workaholic tendencies, and some are available online. These can offer a starting point for reflection on the signs of workaholism, but they aren't a diagnosis — if you're concerned about your relationship with work, talking to a licensed clinician is the most reliable way to understand what's going on.

Overcoming workaholism usually involves setting clearer boundaries around work, addressing the anxiety or other emotions driving the behavior, and building a life that includes rest and relationships alongside work. Professional support, like therapy, can help address what's underneath the pattern rather than just the behavior itself. At Charlie Health’s virtual IOP can help.

Start with an honest, judgment-free conversation about what you're noticing and why you're concerned, since workaholism is often praised rather than questioned. Ask about what's driving the need to work so much, rather than focusing only on the hours. Encourage them to talk to a professional, especially if it seems connected to anxiety or depression, and let them know that support — like Charlie Health's virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) — is available.

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a level of behavioral healthcare for people who need more support than traditional weekly therapy but don't require inpatient care. The goal is to help people manage mental health and substance use challenges while maintaining their daily routines and responsibilities. Our IOP is delivered to clients directly at home through a virtual platform. Each program runs 9–12 weeks and includes 10+ hours of care per week. That time is split across individual therapy and group sessions, with family therapy and psychiatry available when clinically indicated. Scheduling is flexible, with morning, afternoon, and evening options to fit around school, work, and other commitments.

Charlie Health is in-network with more than 600 insurance plans nationwide, including most major commercial plans, TRICARE, and Medicaid in select states. Most clients (60%) pay $0 out-of-pocket. To verify coverage, contact the Admissions Team directly or fill out the online intake form.