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Happy Labor Day!

5 Reasons Work Is Good For Your Health

 

Happy Labor Day!

 

Source:  Huffington Post

Labor Day was developed to celebrate "the strength and spirit of corps of the trade and labor organizations." But with all the news showing a relationship between our working environments and ill health, it can be hard to recognize all the ways that jobs contribute to our wellbeing. From the dangers of sitting for too long to the sleep disruption of shift work, employment gets a bad rap when it comes to health.

Still, according to a report from the UK's Department for Work and Pensions that surveyed labor research, those who are employed are less likely to be hospitalized, less likely to suffer from chronic disease, less likely to suffer from mental illness and actually have a lower mortality rate. While some of that difference may not be causal (for example, those who suffer from chronic or mental illness already may be less employable), many of the characteristics of a steady job are essential to wellbeing.

Of course, it's important to note that we're talking about good jobs -- the kind with a livable wage, benefits, vacation time, reasonable hours, and a sense of satisfaction and belonging. As the New York Times reported, much of the job growth we've experienced during our economic recovery has been among low-wage, unskilled labor. And as the data shows again and again, this is the least healthful type of work. Instead, dedicate this Labor Day to giving thanks for the well-paying, supportive and fulfilling job you have -- or working towards making that employment situation a reality for others.

It Keeps You Out Of Poverty
This may sound glib at first, but it's really true. Having a regular income means that you can avoid many of the health pitfalls of poverty and profound poverty. These include, according to the CDC, access to health care, management of chronic conditions, a healthful, nutritious diet, regular exercise, a reduction in stress and overall good mental health. And, as we covered recently, sleep problems can disproportionately affect the poor.

Gives You Access To Better Care

Sure the Affordable Healthcare for America Act will help close the gap, but having employer-based insurance is a major indicator of healthfulness. Not only do these insurance plans make it easier to have regular check ups and continuous medication coverage, they often offer wellness incentives, like discounted gym memberships, smoking cessation programs and weight loss counseling.

It Makes You Feel Socially Connected
Research shows that people who have good relationships with coworkers actually live longer. They also report greater happiness and life satisfaction.

Overall, belonging to a group provides a social safety net that is associated with longevity.

It Can Help You Recover
For those who have been unemployed -- especially due to injury or illness -- evidence shows that returning to work can speed recovery.

It Helps Us Find Purpose In Old Age
Work is often tied up in our sense of purpose and one indication of that is the growing number of people who choose to keep working into old age.

Dr. Robert Butler, founding director of the National Institute on Aging and CEO of the International Longevity Center told NPR that older adults may continue working because "they have something to get up for in the morning. It gives them a real goal, a sense of meaning."