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The short-run effects of unexpected job loss on health

Author

Listed:
  • Been, J.;
  • Suari-Andreu, E.;
  • Knoef, M.;

Abstract

This paper provides new evidence on the effect of job loss on health. Using unique micro level panel data from the Netherlands with detailed information on health measures, employment, and job loss expectations, we estimate the immediate effect of unexpected job loss on health. We find no evidence for decreases in health, either physical or mental, upon job loss, but clear evidence for immediate reductions in headaches and fatigue. Our results suggest that the immediate effect of reduced work stress are larger than the immediate increase in financial stress from job loss.

Suggested Citation

  • Been, J.; & Suari-Andreu, E.; & Knoef, M.;, 2022. "The short-run effects of unexpected job loss on health," Health, Econometrics and Data Group (HEDG) Working Papers 22/21, HEDG, c/o Department of Economics, University of York.
    • Handle: RePEc:yor:hectdg:22/21
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    health; job loss; expectations;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D84 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Expectations; Speculations
    • I10 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - General
    • J22 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Time Allocation and Labor Supply
    • J60 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - General

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