Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have found that people who change jobs are more likely to experience symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and insomnia, according to an online survey of nearly 20,000 people in Japan.
The study’s results were published in the Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine.
While changing jobs can offer a fresh start, it can also lead to increased physical and mental stress. The research underscores the need to review the support systems available to workers.
Data from an online survey of nearly 20,000 people nationwide were analyzed to determine the relationship between “job changes” and “self-reported health symptoms.”
The results showed that people who had changed jobs in the past year experienced higher rates of symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and insomnia compared with those who had not. This trend was particularly pronounced among individuals changing jobs for the first time.
Job changers reported additional stressors, including night shift work, workplace bullying, and excessive workloads. These situations can lead to physical discomfort and negatively affect mental health.
The study’s findings indicate that job changes can bring both opportunities and risks in the workplace. They emphasize the importance of understanding the psychosocial stress associated with job transitions and reviewing existing support systems during this period.

