Most people spend a significant amount of their lives working. From 9 to 5, five days a week, people leave their homes to earn a living. For some, the idea of work is miserable, and it’s something they’d rather avoid.

For others, work is an essential part of their life. What many people don’t realize is that simply going to work can reduce their risk of death. In this article, we explore the links between work and mortality and provide tips to help you reduce your risk of death by 13%.

The Link Between Work and Mortality

The idea that work can reduce your risk of death might come as a surprise to many. After all, work can be stressful, tiring, and, at times, unrewarding. However, studies show that people who work have a lower risk of death than those who don’t.

According to a study published in The Lancet, people who work have a 13% lower risk of death than people who don’t work.

The study, which looked at over 700,000 people in Europe, found that the link between work and mortality was consistent regardless of the type of work the participants did.

The study also found that the link was not affected by age, gender, or socioeconomic status. The study’s authors suggest that work provides several protective factors that help to reduce the risk of death.

Protective Factors of Work

There are several protective factors of work that can help to reduce the risk of death. These factors include:.

1. Income

Work provides people with income, which can help to reduce the risk of death by providing access to better healthcare, nutrition, and overall living standards.

People who have higher incomes tend to have better health outcomes and a longer life expectancy than those who have lower incomes.

Work provides a sense of social connection that can help to reduce the risk of death. Social connection has been linked to better health outcomes, a lower risk of depression, and a longer life expectancy.

People who work often develop social connections with their colleagues, which can provide a sense of community and support.

3. Purpose

Work can provide people with a sense of purpose, which can help to reduce the risk of death. Having a purpose in life has been linked to better health outcomes, a lower risk of depression, and a longer life expectancy.

People who work often feel a sense of purpose, whether it’s through their career or their contribution to their workplace.

Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Death at Work

While work can provide several protective factors that can help to reduce the risk of death, it’s important to take steps to ensure that your workplace is safe and conducive to good health. Here are some tips to reduce your risk of death at work:.

1. Practice good ergonomics

Make sure that your workplace is set up in a way that promotes good ergonomics. This means making sure that your workstation is set up properly to reduce the risk of injury and strain to your body.

2. Take regular breaks

Sitting for long periods can increase the risk of several health issues, including obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Take regular breaks throughout the day to stretch your legs and move your body.

3. Seek mental health support

Workplace stress can take a toll on your mental health, which can increase the risk of depression and other mental health issues. Seek mental health support if you’re struggling to cope with workplace stress.

4. Stay hydrated

Dehydration can lead to several health issues, including headaches, fatigue, and even kidney stones. Make sure you stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking water and other hydrating fluids.

5. Practice good hygiene

Germs can spread quickly in the workplace, increasing the risk of illness and infection. Practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and covering your mouth when you sneeze, to reduce the risk of illness.

Conclusion

Going to work may not be everyone’s idea of a good time, but it can have significant health benefits. Studies show that people who work have a lower risk of death than those who don’t.

Work provides several protective factors that can help to reduce the risk of death, including income, social connection, and purpose. By taking steps to ensure that your workplace is safe and healthy, you can reduce your risk of death and enjoy the benefits of meaningful work.