Mental Health World Conference 2026

Abstract

Digital transformation has fundamentally reshaped the contemporary workplace, increasing flexibility, autonomy, and access to information while simultaneously challenging traditional boundaries between professional and private life. The emergence of an always on work culture, characterized by permanent accessibility, instant communication, and expectations of rapid responsiveness, raises important questions regarding its implications for psychological well being and occupational mental health.

This presentation examines the potential relationship between workplace hyperconnectivity, psychosocial risks, and compulsive work behavior. Drawing on international research from occupational psychology, behavioral addiction research, and public health, it explores how digital technologies may contribute to work intensification, reduced psychological detachment, impaired recovery, and difficulties maintaining healthy work life boundaries. Importantly, the presentation distinguishes between high work engagement and work addiction, emphasizing that excessive working time alone should not be considered sufficient evidence of an addictive disorder. Key dimensions such as loss of control, persistence despite negative consequences, functional impairment, and difficulty disengaging from work are considered.