Employment contributes to our health and well being in many ways—and not only by preventing the stress of being unable to pay the bills.
For instance, psychologist Maria Jahoda is known for her “deprivation theory” that suggests the unemployed suffer from mental woe in the absence of several important functions of work. Some of these work functions include a structured schedule, a sense of personal identity and shared social experiences. Without these functions, many people become depressed and lose some of their self-esteem.
A 2002 article in the Journal of Occupational and Organization Psychology describes a study that found the “unemployed… engaged in social leisure activities less frequently and solitary leisure activities more frequently than the employed… they also reported higher depressive affect and lower self-esteem.” The reduction in social activities, the study suggests, happens because the unemployed are out-of-touch with their fellow employees.
For those who socialize outside of the work sphere, though, social activity can still be reduced by unemployment. This stems from a reduction in, or lack of, regular income. No money usually equals less socializing.
In some cases, a stagnating social life corresponds with a reduced level of physical activity. In other cases, people who exercise when performing their regular job duties or when travelling to work—by walking or biking—also see a decline in physical activity when they are off work. And, as most people are aware, physical inactivity has deleterious effects on our minds and bodies.
We need exercise to help prevent disease—think diabetes or heart problems—and to reduce stress and fatigue. Long-term unemployment can lead to an inactive lifestyle, which in turn can drastically reduce one’s quality of life.
When you are off work for a lengthy period, it can become progressively more difficult to go back to work. At this point, you may be suffering from reduced or altogether poor mental and physical health. Going back to work can seem like an insurmountable task. For this reason, it is important to understand how critical it is to try and get back to work as soon as you can after suffering an injury or taking a leave. It’s better for your mind, your body and your wallet.
If you are off work because of an injury, try to maintain a positive outlook and focus on your recovery instead of your misfortune. Consider the role your job plays in your life—as part of your personal identity, social sphere, sense of worth and accomplishment and financial stability—and embrace opportunities for rehabilitation and recovery.