Constraint of productivity, stress, pressure… To prevent the risk of burn outthis exhaustion syndrome now recognized as an occupational diseaseand which would affect nearly two out of ten employees, young workers have found a solution. They do not hesitate to take psychotropic drugs (substances that modify mental activity) such as sleeping pills and tranquilizers. This still little known consequence of suffering at work and student malaise is pointed out by Jean-Claude Delgènes, general manager of the firm Technologia, specializing in the assessment and prevention of occupational risks in an article in Le Monde: “20% 25% of young graduates take it for pass their exams or face theanxiety at work“.
Misuse of drugs
Too stressed, students and young employees turn first to food supplements or energy drinks containing caffeine, points Le Monde. Others opt for drugs like Ritalinnormally indicated for attention deficit disorders with or without hyperactivity. This misuse of drugs to improve cognitive performance and concentration appeals to a handful of students. Amanda, a sociology student, is one of them. “I had a huge amount of work before my exams and I couldn’t see the end of it. A hyperactive friend offered me a tablet [de Ritaline] telling myself that I would work super efficiently”, tells the sociology student at La Tribune de Genève. And to add: “I finished my program in one afternoon!”
If in France, this use of these drugs remains in the minority, certain circles such as advertising and the creative professions are more exposed than others, points out Jean-Claude Delgènes in Le Monde.
The effects of these psychostimulants are poorly evaluated. Still, in excess, taking them can promote addiction.
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