Several research studies have proven that your job can have a big impact on your physical and mental health. Unfortunately, many Americans work for an employer who places more of an emphasis on profit margins than on providing people with a good place to work. However, if you find work with an employer who embraces the creative contributions of each worker, you will have the opportunity to discover that your job can actually have a positive impact on your health.
Ways that Your Job can Impact Your Health
1. Stress – The negative impact of a highly stressful job can cause employees to develop depression and issues with anxiety, and it can also lead to serious physical issues such as heart disease and diabetes. However, if your workplace has a lower level of stress, you will have the opportunity to reap the positive benefits of feeling supported and accomplished at the end of each day.
2. Improved Social Life – One of the most positive aspects of working around other people is that you will have the opportunity to improve your social life. Although some employers attempt to dissuade people from developing personal relationships, it has actually been proven that having friends at work can increase your life expectancy.
3. Mental Health – An Australian study indicated that having a poor quality job can actually make people suffer a higher level of depression than individuals who are unemployed. In other words, it is vital to look for a work environment that makes you feel supported while providing you with an appropriate level of pay.
As a video about Kids II discusses, employees are much happier when the company becomes more like family. Just like family, the employees want the company to be successful. Fortunately, people who do work for employers who place an emphasis on keeping employees happy are much less likely to deal with depression issues.
4. Back Problems – Stress can cause back pain, but chronic issues of this type are typically caused by either doing physical labor or sitting in an uncomfortable chair for extended periods of time. Many companies have begun placing an emphasis on obtaining ergonomic office equipment to help prevent their employees from dealing with serious back issues. As an added bonus, this can also reduce the employer’s insurance expenses.
5. Wrist Issues – Carpal tunnel is one of the most common problems for office workers, and it can impact anyone who spends a lot of time typing or performing repetitious movements with their wrists. However, your employer can help you combat this issue by putting ergonomic keyboards in each office. Even if they do not take this approach, it is a good idea for office workers to consider wearing a wrist brace while they type to help prevent themselves from developing carpal tunnel and other similar issues.
As you can see, your work environment can have a big impact on your overall level of physical and mental health. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider all of your options before you select the next move in your career path.
As a mother of four who works full time, Melanie Fleury has found that having a company that has a great culture and that supports personal growth makes the time spent away easier. Being happy at work is possible, as this video about Kids II shows, when you are appreciated, part of a team and part of a work “family.”
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