The Surprising Link Between Work and Mental Health
Mental Health is shaped b countless factors – genetics, relationships, and life experiences – but one often overlooked influence is employment. A groundbreaking UK study followed over 17,000 people from childhood to midlife, uncovering fascinating insight into how work affects mental well-being differently for men and women.
Key Findings: How Work Impacts Mental Health
- Employment Slows Mental Health Decline
- Both men and women experienced worsening mental health over time, but working slowed this decline.
- Men benefited more simply from being employed, while women saw additional benefits from higher-skilled jobs.
- Job Type Matters – Especially for Women
- women in professional or skilled roles had better mental health than those in manual or unskilled jobs.
- For men, job type mattered less – having any job was the key factor.
- Not Working Takes a Toll – Especially for Men
- Men who were unemployed or out of the workforce had significantly worse mental health.
- Women faced less stigma when not working (e.g., caregiving roles), so the impact was smaller.
- Long-Term Illness and Lifestyle Play a Huge Role
- Developing a chronic illness or disability had a major negative effect on mental health for both genders.
- Smoking, heavy drinking, and obesity were linked to poorer mental well-being.
Why Does Work Help Mental Health?
Employment provides more than just income, if offers:
- Structure and Purpose – Daily routines and goals can improve emotional stability.
- Social Connection – Coworker relationship reduce isolation
- Confidence Boost – Productivity enhances self-worth.
What If Your Job Harms Your Mental Health?
Not all jobs support well-being. If work feels draining, consider:
- Telehealth Therapy – Remote support for stress, anxiety, or burnout.
- EMDR Therapy – Helps process trauma affecting work performance.
- Career Counseling – Finds roles better aligned with strengths and mental health needs.
Key Takeaway
Work can protect mental health, but the effect varies by gender and job quality. For men, any job helps; for women, job type matters more. Healthy habits and early intervention for chronic conditions also play a crucial role.
A fulfilling career isn’t just about financial success – it’s about sustaining mental well-being.
For those seeking top-notch therapy in California, Texas, and Oregon, Dr. Sara C offers EMDR, CBT, and DBT therapies. Highly rated and serving Newport Beach, CA; Beverly Hills, CA; San Diego, CA; Portland, OR; Jacksonville, OR; Dallas, TX; and Houston, TX, she provides exceptional telehealth services.
In case of a mental health emergency, please call 911 or seek immediate professional help.
Sources:
Llena‐Nozal, A., Lindeboom, M., & Portrait, F. (2004). The effect of work on mental health: does occupation matter? Health Economics, 13(10), 1045–1062. https://doi.org/10.1002/hec.929