Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra has recently finished filming her Hollywood project, The Bluff, and has been sharing insights into her demanding schedule, including the physical challenges and injuries she encountered on set.

In an interview with Vogue India, Chopra opened up about the rigorous demands of the film. “I’ve always enjoyed the physical aspect of acting, but it definitely takes a toll as you get older. Recovery isn’t as swift as it was in my twenties,” she said.

Chopra described her intense filming routine: “My days were extremely demanding yet surprisingly routine. I’ve been working on The Bluff since May, filming six days a week. On non-night shoots, I’d wake up around 4:30 or 5 am. I worked 12-hour days, then came home, had dinner, spent time with my daughter, caught up with my mom or other tasks, went to bed, and did it all over again the next day.”

The Impact of 12-Hour Workdays on Health

Working 12-hour days can significantly impact both physical and mental health. Experts warn that such extended hours place substantial strain on the body and mind, potentially leading to long-term health issues.

Effects on the Body:

Dr. Saras Prasad, a Consultant Psychiatrist at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, notes that one of the immediate effects is sleep deprivation. Extended work hours can reduce sleep time, leading to impaired cognitive function, slower reflexes, and weakened immunity. Chronic fatigue and muscle weakness are common, increasing susceptibility to illnesses.

The stress from long hours can elevate cortisol levels, raising the risk of anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular diseases. Mental fatigue can impair decision-making, focus, and emotional stability. Additionally, the lack of personal time often results in work-life imbalance, straining relationships and reducing overall life satisfaction.

Long-Term Consequences:

If 12-hour workdays become the norm, chronic health issues may develop. Dr. Rakesh Gupta, an internal medicine expert at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, highlights the risk of burnout, characterized by emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion. Overworking can also lead to chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and depression. Disruptions in circadian rhythms may result in sleep disorders and gastrointestinal problems.

Research indicates that prolonged working hours increase the likelihood of occupational injuries and long-term health problems. The World Health Organization (WHO) has linked excessive work hours to heightened risks of cardiovascular diseases and workplace accidents.