Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have found that people who change jobs are more likely to experience symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and insomnia. The findings come from an online survey conducted among approximately 20,000 individuals in Japan. The results were published in the Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine (JOEM).

While changing jobs can be an opportunity for a fresh start, it can also lead to increased physical and psychological stress. The study highlights the need to reassess the support systems available to working individuals.

Data from an online survey of around 20,000 people nationwide were analyzed to determine the relationship between “job change” and “self-reported health symptoms.”

The results showed that those who had changed jobs within the past year reported higher rates of symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and insomnia compared to those who had not. This trend was particularly pronounced among individuals experiencing their first job change.

Job changers also faced more stress factors, including night shift burdens, workplace bullying, and excessive workloads. Such conditions can cause physical discomfort and negatively impact mental health.

The study concludes that job changes can present both opportunities and risks in today’s work environment. It emphasizes the importance of visualizing the psychosocial stress associated with job transitions and reexamining existing support systems for employees during career changes.