After losing a job, it’s important to set a regular sleep schedule, keep yibao (basic medical insurance) active, and plan job searches methodically — don’t just stay at home all day.
People who are unemployed have a roughly 60% higher chance of dying in the years that follow compared to those still employed. This effect is stronger among younger men and peaks during the first decade after job loss. Some of this risk can be controlled: studies that also accounted for smoking and drinking showed a 25% smaller increase in mortality. Registering as unemployed and claiming benefits also ensures that employee medical insurance stays active (see Section 7).
There’s no expense involved. First, register as unemployed…
Data from 42 studies involving over 20 million participants and 235 mortality risk estimates show that, after…
There’s no expense involved. First, register as unemployed and apply for unemployment benefits; then schedule job searches at set times. The real challenge is waking up on time when no one is there to push you.
Data from 42 studies involving over 20 million participants and 235 mortality risk estimates show that, after adjusting for age and other factors, unemployed individuals face an average HR of 1.63 for all causes of death — meaning their risk is about 63% higher than that of employed people. This effect is more pronounced in men and in people early or midway through their careers; it diminishes after the first ten years. When lifestyle factors like smoking and drinking are included in the analysis, the average HR drops by 24%, reflecting a similar reduction in overall risk.
Roelfs DJ, et al. (2011). Losing life and livelihood: a systematic review and meta-analysis of unemployment and all-cause mortality. Social Science & Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2011.01.005
Open source linkThese findings come from observational studies, so a direct cause‑and‑effect relationship cannot be proven; it’s also possible that poorer health contributes to unemployment. Nevertheless, the 24% reduction in risk after adjusting for health behaviors offers a useful direction for intervention. Details on eligibility for unemployment benefits, how to apply, and how to maintain social insurance coverage are provided in Section 7. Information on severance pay and why you should avoid voluntarily resigning can be found in Section 19.