The impact of work loss on mental and physical health during the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from a prospective cohort study

ObjectiveTo determine if losing work during the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with mental and physical health. To determine if social interactions and financial resources moderate the relationship between work loss and health.DesignBaseline data from a prospective longitudinal cohort study.SettingAustralia, 27th March to 12th June 2020.ParticipantsAustralians aged 18+ years, employed in a paid job prior to the COVID-19 pandemic who responded to an online or telephone survey.Main Outcome MeasuresKessler-6 score > 18 indicating high psychological distress. Short Form 12 (SF-12) mental health or physical health component score < = 45 indicating poor mental or physical health.Results2,603 respondents including groups who had lost their job (N = 541), were not working but remained employed (N = 613), were working less (N = 789) and whose work was unaffected (N = 789). Three groups experiencing work loss had greater odds of high psychological distress (AOR = 2.22–3.66), poor mental (AOR = 1.78–2.27) and physical health (AOR = 2.10–2.12) than the unaffected work group. Poor mental health was more common than poor physical health. The odds of high psychological distress (AOR = 5.43–8.36), poor mental (AOR = 1.92–4.53) and physical health (AOR = 1.93–3.90) were increased in those reporting fewer social interactions or less financial resources.ConclusionLosing work during the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with mental and physical health problems, and this relationship is moderated by social interactions and financial resources. Responses that increase financial security and enhance social connections may partially alleviate the health impacts of work loss.RegistrationAustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12620000857909.