Are hard times good for our health? According to a recent article by Christopher Ruhm that may well be the case.
Ruhm tells us that a one point increase in the unemployment rate sees a corresponding drop in total deaths of up to half a point.
Assuming this is correct, WHY does it happen? Some theories suggest that with fewer people working there are fewer people on the road to be involved in car crashes.
Apparently a one point uptick in the jobless rate results in up to a 3% decrease in traffic deaths.
Would you believe that there is also a significant decrease in heart attacks during hard times? Lifestyle changes designed to stop or curtail spending may be part of the reason.
During an economic bust period we tend to exercise more, cook at home more, and spend less (and therefore consume less) on alcohol and tobacco.
Rules for Success and Health I have a different - albeit unscientific - take on the situation.
In many ways, getting laid off is a very freeing experience.
Suddenly your time is your own and you decide how to spend it.
You have more time to spend with family and friends.
You can spend more time on hobbies you enjoy - or take up new ones.
You can give back to your community in a very personal way instead of just by writing a check.
Have a Talk With Your Inner Entrepreneur You also now have the time to have a good long chat with your inner entrepreneur.
Is this the right time to finally strike out on your own instead of looking for another 9-5 grind? Could this be how you continue to have time for all the personal pursuits you've recently rediscovered? It can be.
You CAN create the lifestyle you want by working smarter, not harder.
You CAN set your own schedule - doing something that you love.
You CAN have all the advantages (and then some!) of people with J-O-Bs without the down side.
You CAN have it all: the money, the time, family and community involvement.
You CAN have the freedom.
And when you are in control of a situation, isn't it less stressful - even if you're working hard? So, if you've been hit by the unemployment ax - or even if you only think it's headed your way - view this as the opportunity it is to change the direction of your life.
Not only may you be happier; you could end up healthier as well! P.
S.
Read Ruhm's article by clicking the link.