Work Addiction
Work Addiction, also known as Workaholism, is a behavioral pattern characterized by compulsive overworking and an inability to disconnect from professional responsibilities. While society often rewards productivity and ambition, the relentless pursuit of achievement can mask deeper emotional struggles and result in serious personal, relational, and psychological consequences. At Blair Wellness Group, we treat Work Addiction with discretion, professionalism, and evidence-based care tailored to the unique needs of high-performing individuals.
Understanding Work Addiction
Work Addiction is not simply about working long hours or being passionate about one’s career. It is a persistent, compulsive drive to work that becomes emotionally and physically detrimental. Individuals may find it difficult to relax, disconnect from tasks, or engage meaningfully in relationships and leisure activities. Over time, this behavior can erode emotional well-being, increase isolation, and contribute to Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Burnout, and Relationship Conflict.
Work Addiction is often rooted in perfectionism, low self-worth, unresolved trauma, or the need to maintain control. Many who struggle with this disorder use work as a means to avoid emotional discomfort, manage internal distress, or uphold an identity built around external success.

Signs and Symptoms of Work Addiction
If you recognize any of the following behaviors in yourself or someone you care about, Work Addiction may be a concern:
- Feeling guilt, anxiety, or restlessness when not working
- Difficulty setting boundaries or saying “no” to new responsibilities
- Avoiding emotional intimacy or personal challenges through overworking
- Prioritizing work over health, family, and relationships
- Equating self-worth with productivity and achievement
- Becoming defensive when confronted about work habits
Inability to delegate, trust others, or take time off
The Hidden Cost of Overworking
Work Addiction often remains unnoticed or even praised, particularly in executive and leadership environments where long hours and sacrifice are normalized. However, the costs are significant. Chronic overworking is associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, insomnia, anxiety, substance abuse, and clinical burnout. It also undermines emotional connection, limits self-awareness, and can damage romantic, familial, and professional relationships.
Work Addiction is especially common among CEOs, entrepreneurs, and high-level professionals, where relentless drive and perfectionism often go unchecked. It frequently co-occurs with other mental health conditions, including Depression, Anxiety Disorders, and Alcohol Use Disorder.
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Office Hours
Mon - Fri :
7 am - 11 pm
Sat - Sun :
9 am - 10 pm
Therapy for Work Addiction at Blair Wellness Group
At Blair Wellness Group, we provide confidential, one-on-one therapy for Work Addiction through our Concierge Care model. We understand the emotional and logistical demands faced by professionals, and we offer flexible scheduling options, including evenings and weekends, to support your lifestyle.

Treatments for Work Addiction May Include
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to challenge perfectionistic and compulsive thought patterns
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to build emotional regulation and mindfulness
- Psychodynamic and Relational Therapy to explore the origins of emotional avoidance and identity issues
- Executive Coaching Integration, where appropriate, to support aligned career goals without reinforcing addictive patterns
- Support for Partners or Loved Ones, when Work Addiction has caused emotional distance or conflict
Our goal is not to curb ambition or success, but to help clients develop a more emotionally fulfilling and balanced relationship with work, one that supports rather than undermines long-term mental health and relational well-being.
We offer evening and weekend appointments for our concierge patients and all patients upon request.
Schedule an Appointment
With tailored support, you can rebuild a healthier relationship with your work by setting boundaries, managing stress, and rediscovering balance. If nonstop work feels less like drive and more like a hidden addiction, book a confidential consultation with Blair Wellness Group’s Concierge Psychology team to begin your journey toward sustainable well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions About Work Addiction
What is the difference between being a hard worker and having Work Addiction?
While hard work is often a healthy and admirable trait, Work Addiction involves a compulsive, uncontrollable drive to work at the expense of one’s mental health, relationships, and well-being. It is fueled by internal pressure rather than external demands or genuine passion.
Can therapy really help with Work Addiction?
Yes. Therapy can uncover the emotional drivers behind overworking and provide the tools needed to set boundaries, develop emotional awareness, and restore balance. At Blair Wellness Group, treatment is individualized and highly confidential, ensuring clients feel supported and safe.
Is Work Addiction connected to Anxiety or Depression?
Absolutely. Many individuals use work to avoid emotional discomfort, anxiety, or depressive thoughts. While this strategy may temporarily numb emotional pain, it ultimately reinforces deeper mental health challenges.
How do I know if my partner is struggling with Work Addiction?
Common signs include emotional disconnection, prioritizing work over the relationship, difficulty being present, and defensiveness when work habits are questioned. Therapy can help both partners understand the impact of Work Addiction and find healthy ways forward.
Do I have to give up my career to recover from Work Addiction?
No. The goal of therapy is not to diminish success or career achievement. Instead, we help clients create a sustainable, healthy relationship with work that aligns with emotional well-being, personal values, and long-term fulfillment.
Looking for a Local Psychologist?
Blair Wellness Group proudly serves clients throughout Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Century City, Hollywood Hills, West Hollywood, Brentwood, Westwood, Manhattan Beach, Irvine, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Dana Point, Corona Del Mar, Huntington Beach, San Diego, and La Jolla.

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At Blair Wellness Group, we are here to meet your clinical needs at any time.

Dedicated Support
Our team provides the compassionate care, support, and necessary interventions needed for our clients to achieve their goals and clinical objectives.

Experience
With 15+ years of clinical experience in providing an array of psychological services, we are committed to helping our patients achieve their goals.

Professional Team Support
We are dedicated to the well-being of our clients and have the extensive training to provide them with high-quality care.
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Office Hours
Mon - Fri :
7 am - 11 pm
Sat - Sun :
9 am - 10 pm
Get Started Today
Looking for a Local Psychologist?
Our Psychologists and Therapists in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Irvine, Newport Beach, and the surrounding areas offer evening and weekend appointments for our Concierge patients. Contact us today to discover how Blair Wellness Group can help you overcome personal or professional challenges and mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, addiction issues, and personality disorders.