There's also another factor which I think is important. If working was simple enough to be a bit dull but not horrendously unpleasant due to companies that wish to work people to the bone, patronise them, and forcing them to submit to nasty management, it might be a more attractive concept.

If people are desperate for work, they are vulnerable to the absolutely disgusting way they are treated and exploited by employers.

I find that in tech that employers treat me fantastically because I have more of a value proposition and am thus bargaining from a stronger perspective.

If working is so bad that it's actively damaging to my mental and physical health, I would be doing everything I can to avoid it.