Unemployment and mental and physical health, access to health care and health risk behaviors: A 2009 national BRFSS study

Background: Previous studies have shown a relationship between unemployment and poor mental health. Based on Jahoda's theory, both voluntarily and involuntarily unemployed people would have poor mental health than people who are employed. The purpose of this study was to examine the association of unemployment and perceived health, access to health care, and health risk behaviors during a period of high national unemployment. Those who were employed were compared to those who were involuntarily unemployed (unemployed) and those who were voluntarily unemployed (out of labor force). Methods: Data from the 2009 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) were analyzed using ANOVA, ANCOVA and multiple logistic regressions. In 2009, participants from eight states were asked the optional mental illness questions in addition to the core component items. Results: Unemployed participants were significantly more likely to have poorer perceived mental health scores (p < 0.05) for depression, worthlessness and hopelessness, but not for nervousness, restlessness or increased effort. They were also 3.5 times more likely to not have access to health care coverage and two times more likely to delay health care services due to cost than employed participants. Unemployed participants were significantly more likely to smoke. Contrary to previous findings, unemployed participants in this study were not more likely to binge drink or be physically inactive. OLF participants did not have worse perceived mental health than employed participants. Conclusion: Findings from this study suggest that the impetus for unemployment, be it voluntary or involuntary, may significantly impact a person's mental health.