When we ask safety pros about their jobs, they often say their days are never boring. Turns out that’s a good thing in more ways than one.

A new study says that, yes, you really can be bored to death.

Researchers at University College London found people who complain of high levels of boredom are at double the risk of dying from heart disease or a stroke than those who find life entertaining.

People who said they were bored were nearly 40% more likely to have died by the end of the study than those who weren’t bored.

Those with more menial jobs were more prone to boredom, and thus more likely to die at an earlier age.

The researchers say people who are bored are more likely to turn to unhealthy habits like drinking and smoking.

The report also suggested people with boring jobs should find outside interests rather than turning to drinking or smoking. Another anti-boredom plan: Think more about the needs of others, such as family, friends or co-workers.

The study of 7,524 civil servants will be published in the International Journal of Epidemiology.

Tags: bored to death, new study, tedious jobs