Antonyms for "took a load off" could include "took on a responsibility," "added to the workload," or "bore the burden." Rather than releasing stress or relaxing, these antonyms suggest the opposite - taking on more tasks or responsibilities. Other antonyms may include "stressed out," "feeling overwhelmed," "working harder," or "putting in more effort." Essentially, taking a load off refers to lightening one's load, while antonyms may involve adding weight or pressure. It's important to recognize when one needs to take a break and prioritize self-care, which can help prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.