Addicted to Work? The Psychology Behind Work Addiction, Part 1

Addicted to Work? The Psychology Behind Work Addiction, Episode 18 Part 1In this first part of a two-part conversation, I sit down with Alina Meyer-Riad to explore what work addiction actually is and why it is often misunderstood.We talk about the difference between working hard and losing control, the role of validation and productivity in shaping identity, and why work addiction can be harder to spot than other behavioural patterns because it is so often rewarded.This episode may speak to working professionals, high achievers, and anyone who feels their self-worth has become too closely tied to output.Key themes include:what addiction is and how Alina defines itwhy work addiction is not simply long hourshow dopamine and reward can reinforce overworkingwhy work addiction is often normalised in hustle culturesome of the early warning signs that work is taking over too much spacePart 2 continues the conversation and looks more deeply at where these patterns come from, along with recovery, resilience, and healthier boundaries.DisclaimerThis podcast is grounded in lived experience and educational conversation. It is not therapy, crisis support, or individual professional advice. Connect with Alina Meyer-RiadLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amrresilienzstaerken/Website:https://www.amr-resilienz-staerken.de/ Explore moreJoin the burnout recovery community waiting list: https://www.whereimatcommunity.com/community If this episode helped you, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment, it helps more peoplefind this burnout-safe space. Want to support the podcast: https://ko-fi.com/whereimatcommunity