Work and Mental Health

A new study by the World Health Organisation (WHO) has researched the link between poor mental health and unstable employment. The study, carried out in Canada, found that workers in precarious employment with little or no benefits (such as contract or interim) experienced greater adverse effects to their mental health when compared to full time workers with benefits. The reasearch team attributed this in part to the feelings of insecurity experienced by those workers. Stress at work is also associated with a 50% excess risk of heart disease, and an increased risk of depression and substance misuse disorders. Recommendations include improving employment and working conditions.