For many people, going to work is a routine part of daily life.

However, did you know that going to work could actually save your life? According to a study by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, individuals who work regular hours have a 13% lower risk of death than those who are unemployed. This is a significant statistic that highlights the importance of consistent employment for overall health and longevity.

The Health Benefits of Going to Work

There are several reasons why going to work is beneficial for your health. Firstly, work provides a sense of purpose and meaning to daily life. This can have a positive impact on mental health, reducing the risk of depression and anxiety.

Additionally, regular work can lead to financial stability, which can in turn result in better access to health care and healthier lifestyle choices such as healthy eating and exercise.

In addition, those who work in physically demanding jobs may experience a range of health benefits from the physical activity involved.

For example, individuals who work in construction or manufacturing may benefit from improved strength, endurance and flexibility. Similarly, those who work in occupations such as nursing or personal care may experience better cardiovascular health due to the physical demands of the job.

The Risks of Unemployment

Conversely, the risks associated with unemployment can be significant. Financial instability, social isolation and lack of purpose can all have negative impacts on mental and physical health.

Unemployment is also linked to a greater prevalence of risky behaviours such as smoking and alcohol consumption, both of which can have serious detrimental effects on health over time.

One area that is particularly concerning is the link between unemployment and suicide rates. According to the World Health Organization, unemployed individuals are at a significantly higher risk of suicidal behaviour than those who are employed.

This is thought to be due to a range of factors including financial stress, social isolation and a lack of purpose or meaning in daily life.

How to Make Work Work for You

While the statistics surrounding the benefits of work are clear, it’s important to acknowledge that not all work is created equal.

For individuals to experience the full health benefits of work, it’s important that the work is fulfilling, meaningful and rewarding. This means that finding the right job is key to experiencing the positive impacts of work on health and wellbeing.

There are also a range of strategies that individuals can use to make work work for them. For example, setting boundaries around work hours and prioritizing self-care can help to prevent burnout and stress.

Seeking out opportunities for growth and development in the workplace can also lead to increased job satisfaction and a sense of purpose.

The Future of Work and Health

As the nature of work continues to evolve, it’s clear that the impact of work on health and wellbeing will remain an important issue.

In particular, the rise of automation and artificial intelligence is likely to have significant implications for the workforce, potentially leading to job losses and changes in the nature of work.

However, there are also opportunities for technology to support and enhance the health benefits of work. For example, automation may reduce the physical demands of some jobs, reducing the risk of work-related injuries.

Similarly, technology can also facilitate remote work and flexible schedules, providing individuals with greater control over their work-life balance and reducing the risk of burnout.

The Bottom Line

Going to work is not only good for your wallet, but it’s also good for your health. The benefits of consistent employment are clear, and it’s important that individuals are able to find fulfilling, meaningful and rewarding work.

By prioritizing self-care and seeking out opportunities for growth and development, individuals can make work work for them and experience the full range of health benefits that come with regular employment.