Embarking on a new professional journey is an exhilarating and challenging experience. The anticipation of new responsibilities, colleagues, and environments often accompanies a surge of excitement and nervous energy. In the throes of a job transition, one is not only navigating the intricacies of one’s new role, but also contending with the physiological impacts of change. From heightened stress levels to disrupted sleep patterns, the process of acclimating to a new work environment can often leave one vulnerable to illness. Understanding the various risks associated with this transition may empower one with the knowledge to navigate this pivotal period with resilience.
Impact of stress on the immune system
For those who find the prospect of change to be alarming, starting a new job can be incredibly stressful. Stress upsets the balance of the human body, which is regulated by a hormone called cortisol [1]. In some cases, the average amount of cortisol released fails to regulate the balance, leading to an increased release [1]. When stress responses are persistently activated, the cortisol release results in excessive wear and tear on bodily systems, which subsequently leads to poor health outcomes.
Disruption of sleep
Starting a new job can often mean that one’s schedule changes, particularly in terms of wake-up times. Studies show that a decrease in the hours spent asleep may result in a release of cortisol during the night. From what is known about cortisol [1], this means that the body is reacting as though it is under stress [2]. Furthermore, disrupted sleep patterns have shown to lead to an increase in white blood cells in the body, which are the immunity cells responsible for fighting off infection. Changes in immune function as a result of this, may contribute to the development of illnesses.
Exposure to new germs
The main job of the immune system is to defend the human body against germs that cause diseases. When the immune system comes into contact with a germ for the first time, it responds by trying to fight it off, and that is when a person becomes ill [3]. It is not difficult to imagine how many different germs one could come into contact with when starting a new job. A study by the University of Arizona revealed just how far and fast germ contamination can spread in the workplace: over 50% of all surfaces can become infected in a day by a single sick employee [4]. Such surfaces include doorknobs, kettle handles, fridge handles, printer buttons, and telephones. With an immune system that is already compromised due to stress and changes in sleep patterns, it is no wonder that one can be so susceptible to illness.
Seasonal changes
Lastly, a less common risk is the change in season during the time of job transitioning. The popular job-search website, Indeed, states that the months of March to May and September/October are the most popular months to get hired [5]. These months fall into the seasons of autumn and spring (or vice versa for the northern hemisphere). Individuals who suffer from seasonal allergies may find themselves falling ill within the first weeks of a new job.
It can be exceptionally frustrating to become ill when starting a new role, especially if one has not yet accrued any sick leave. It can also leave newly hired employee feeling as though they are imparting an impression of poor work ethics, even if this is not the case. What can be done to combat this? Firstly, one needs to ensure that one’s immunity is built up before entering the new environment. Multivitamins packed with Vitamins B and C, zinc, and iron will contribute to this. Drinking enough water, getting an early night’s rest, and exercising three times a week will also help. Secondly, keeping hands and all contact surfaces in the workplace clean and sanitised will greatly reduce the spread of germs. Lastly, one should not feel discouraged from seeking medical attention when ill. The health and wellbeing of all employees, new or old, is of the utmost importance.
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References
[1] O’Connor, D.B., Thayer, J.F. and Vedhara, K. (2020). Stress and Health: A Review of Psychobiological Processes. Annual Review of Psychology, 72(1), pp.663–688.
[2] Potter, G.D.M., Skene, D.J., Arendt, J., Cade, J.E., Grant, P.J. and Hardie, L.J. (2016). Circadian Rhythm and Sleep Disruption: Causes, Metabolic Consequences, and Countermeasures. Endocrine Reviews, 37(6), pp.584–608.
[3] Pfizer (2019). How the Immune System Protects You From Infection. [online] Available at:
https://www.pfizer.com/news/articles/how_the_immune_system_protects_you_from_infection
[4] University of Arizona News. (2013). Germs Spread Fast at Work, Study Finds. [online] Available at:
https://news.arizona.edu/story/germs-spread-fast-at-work-study-finds
[5] Hanne Keiling. (2023.). When Is the Best Time of Year to Look for a Job? | Indeed.com. [online] Available at:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/best-time-of-year-to-look-for-a-job