Neuroendocrine and Immunologic Effects of Unemployment and Job Insecurity

Authors:
  • SBSten-Olof Brenner
    Sten-Olof Brenner
  • LLLennart Levi
    Lennart Levi
  • RHRobert Hjelm
    Robert Hjelm
  • IPInga-Lill Petterson
    Inga-Lill Petterson
  • JWJerzy Wasserman
    Jerzy Wasserman
  • BPBjörn Petrini
    Björn Petrini
  • PEPeter Eneroth
    Peter Eneroth
  • AKAnders Kallner
    Anders Kallner
  • RKRichard Kvetnansky
    Richard Kvetnansky
  • MVMilan Vigas
    Milan Vigas
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Abstract
We prospectively followed a cohort of 354 blue-collar men and women, some of whom lost their jobs. Results show marked effects during the anticipatory and early unemployement phase on mental well-being, serum cortisol, prolactin, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and phytohemagglutinin reactivity of lymphocytes. Most of these changes appear to be of short-term duration. However, changes in cardiovascular risk factors are observed at least 2 years following the loss of one’s job. Coping style appears to be a major determinant whether or not and how people will react to unemployment.