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The Harmful Impact of Job Stress on Mental and Physical
Health
Hanafiah Hasin, Yang Chik Johari, Anita Jamil, Enylina Nordin, Wan
Shafizah Hussein
To Link this Article: http://dx.doi.org/10.6007/IJARBSS/v13-i4/16655 DOI:10.6007/IJARBSS/v13-i4/16655
Received: 08 February 2023, Revised: 11 March 2023, Accepted: 30 March 2023
Published Online: 14 April 2023
In-Text Citation: (Hasin et al., 2023)
To Cite this Article: Hasin, H., Johari, Y. C., Jamil, A., Nordin, E., & Hussein, W. S. (2023). The Harmful Impact of
Job Stress on Mental and Physical Health. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and
Social Sciences, 13(4), 961 – 975.
Copyright: © 2023 The Author(s)
Published by Human Resource Management Academic Research Society (www.hrmars.com)
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Vol. 13, No. 4, 2023, Pg. 961 – 975
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JOURNAL HOMEPAGE
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The Harmful Impact of Job Stress on Mental and
Physical Health
Hanafiah Hasin, Yang Chik Johari, Anita Jamil, Enylina Nordin,
Wan Shafizah Hussein
Faculty of Accountancy, Universiti Teknologi MARA Cawangan Melaka, Kampus Alor Gajah
Corresponding Author’s Email: yang_chik@uitm.edu.my
Abstract
Job stress is a growing concern in today's workplaces and has been linked to negative mental
and physical health outcomes. In this systematic literature review, we aim to examine recent
research on the impact of job stress on mental and physical health outcomes. Findings from
literature analysis indicate that job stress is consistently associated with negative mental
health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and burnout. Furthermore, job stress is
associated with various physical health outcomes, such as cardiovascular, musculoskeletal,
and gastrointestinal disorders. From there, we developed the hypotheses for the study. This
study could utilize a cross-sectional or longitudinal research design, depending on the
research objectives and data availability later. Data collection could involve a combination of
questionnaires, physiological measures, and biomarkers to collect data on job stress and
mental and physical health outcomes. Various statistical techniques could be used to explore
the relationships between job stress, mental and physical health outcomes, and potential
moderating and mediating variables. Overall, the findings of this research can provide
valuable insights into the harmful impact of job stress on mental and physical health and can
inform the development of interventions and policies to promote employee well-being and
reduce the negative effects of job stress.
Keywords: Job Stress, Mental Health, Physical Health, Systematic Review, Workplace, Well-
Being
Introduction
Job stress is a growing concern among individuals and organizations, as it has been found to
have a significant impact on mental and physical health. The World Health Organization
(WHO) defines job stress as "the response people may have when presented with work
demands and pressures that are not matched to their knowledge and abilities, and which
challenge their ability to cope" (WHO, 2019). Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to
job stress can lead to various negative health outcomes. According to a report by the
American Psychological Association (APA), job stress has been linked to increased rates of
anxiety, depression, and burnout (APA, 2018). In addition, job stress has also been found to
increase the risk of developing physical health problems such as cardiovascular disease,
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musculoskeletal disorders, and gastrointestinal disorders. (European Agency for Safety and
Health at Work, 2019).
The harmful impact of job stress on physical and mental health has become a
significant concern for employers and policymakers. Organizations recognize the importance
of addressing job stress in the workplace, as it not only affects the health and well-being of
employees but also impacts job performance and productivity. Policymakers are also taking
action to address this issue, as the economic costs associated with job stress, including
healthcare costs and lost productivity, are significant (European Agency for Safety and Health
at Work, 2019).
Therefore, this study aims to examine the relationship between job stress and mental
health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and burnout and investigate the impact of job
stress on physical health outcomes such as cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal
disorders, and gastrointestinal disorders. The research objectives are expected to answer the
following research questions: What is the relationship between job stress and mental health
outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and burnout? How does job stress impact physical
health outcomes such as cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and gastrointestinal disorders?
Literature Review
Job stress and physical and mental health impact
Job stress is a common problem in the modern workplace and can have a harmful
impact on both mental and physical health. Several studies have focused on the prevalence
of job stress and its impact on employee well-being. This literature review aims to provide an
overview of recent research on the harmful impact of job stress on mental and physical
health. A study by Wang et al (2018) found that job stress was prevalent among employees
in various industries, including healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Their survey of
2,782 employees found that nearly 60% reported experiencing job stress, with the highest
rates among healthcare workers.
Job Stress and Physical Health Impact
Job stress can also have a harmful impact on physical health. A study by Li et al (2018)
found that job stress was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease among
workers in the construction industry. Another study by Tsurugano et al (2018) found that job
stress was associated with an increased risk of hypertension among Japanese workers. Choi
et al (2019) examined the association between job stress and metabolic syndrome among
Korean workers. The authors found that job stress was significantly associated with an
increased risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, such
as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abdominal obesity. Kouvonen et al (2018)
investigated the association between chronic workplace stress and insufficient physical
activity among Finnish public sector employees. The authors found that chronic workplace
stress was associated with an increased risk of insufficient physical activity, a risk factor for
various physical health problems, including cardiovascular disease. Lee et al (2021) studied
the relationship between job stress and gastrointestinal symptoms among Korean workers.
They found that job stress was significantly associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, such
as abdominal pain, bloating, and indigestion, which can have a negative impact on physical
health and well-being.
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Cardiovascular Disease
Kim & Ahn (2020) investigated the association between job stress and musculoskeletal
disorders among Korean firefighters. The authors found that job stress was significantly
associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly in the neck,
shoulders, and lower back. Lin et al (2020) examined the relationship between job stress and
musculoskeletal pain among university faculty in Taiwan. The authors found that job stress
was positively associated with musculoskeletal pain, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and
lower back. Hwang et al (2019) examined the association between job stress and
cardiovascular disease risk among Korean workers. The authors found that job stress was
significantly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, independent of other
risk factors such as age, gender, and lifestyle factors. Li et al (2018) investigated the
relationship between job stress and cardiovascular disease among female nurses in China.
The authors found that job stress was significantly associated with an increased risk of
cardiovascular disease, particularly among older and less educated nurses.
Musculoskeletal Disorders
Job stress has also been linked to musculoskeletal disorders. A study by Umann et al.
(2019) found that job stress was a significant predictor of musculoskeletal disorders among
healthcare workers. They found that job stress was associated with increased neck and back
pain. Kääriä et al (2019) examined the association between job demands and musculoskeletal
pain among Finnish employees. The authors found that high job demands were significantly
associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal pain in various body regions, including
the neck, shoulders, and lower back.
Gastrointestinal disorders
Bianchi et al (2019) investigated the association between job stress and
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) among Brazilian workers. The authors found that job
stress was significantly associated with an increased risk of GERD, particularly among workers
of African descent. Leite et al (2021) did a systematic review and meta-analysis that examined
the association between work stressors and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) among health
professionals and found that work stressors, such as job demands and interpersonal conflict,
were significantly associated with an increased risk of IBS. Oh et al (2019) investigated the
association between job stress and functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) among
Korean workers. This study found that job stress was significantly associated with an
increased risk of FGIDs, particularly among workers with high job demands.
Job Stress and Mental Health Impact
Anxiety and depression
Job stress has been linked to various mental health problems, including anxiety and
depression. A study by Chu et al (2018) found that job stress was a significant predictor of
anxiety and depression among healthcare workers. Another study by Kim et al (2019) found
that job stress was associated with an increased risk of depression among workers in the
service industry. The study examines the association between job stress and depression
among Korean employees and found that job stress was positively associated with
depression. A study by Lee et al (2019) found that job stress partially mediated the
relationship, indicating that it was a mechanism through which long working hours negatively
affected emotional well-being. Another study by Liu et al (2018) examines the effects of job
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stress on mental health and job satisfaction among Japanese factory workers. It found that
job stress was negatively associated with mental health and job satisfaction, indicating that it
had a harmful impact on these outcomes. Özyurt et al. (2020) investigated the relationship
between job stress and depression, anxiety, and stress among nurses working in a university
hospital in Turkey. They concluded that job stress was positively associated with depression,
anxiety, and stress.
Insomnia
Chronic job stress can also lead to insomnia. A study by Chen et al (2019) found that job
stress was a significant predictor of insomnia among employees in the technology industry.
They found that job stress was associated with increased difficulty falling asleep and waking
up during the night. Lee et al (2020) investigated the association between job stress and
insomnia among Korean workers and found that job stress was significantly associated with
insomnia. Specifically, employees who reported high levels of job stress had a higher risk of
experiencing insomnia symptoms, including difficulty falling asleep and maintaining sleep.
Zhao et al (2019) studied the relationship between job stress and insomnia among shift-
working nurses. They found that job stress was significantly associated with insomnia
symptoms, including difficulty falling asleep, maintaining sleep, and waking up too early.
Yang et al (2019) investigated the impact of job stress on insomnia among Chinese
university staff and found that job stress was a significant predictor of insomnia symptoms.
Park et al (2021) found that job stress was significantly associated with insomnia symptoms,
including difficulty falling asleep, maintaining sleep, and waking up too early among hotel
employees in Korea.
Burnout
Job stress can lead to burnout and emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion. A study
by Chen et al (2018) found that job stress was a significant predictor of burnout among
employees in the service industry. They found that job stress was associated with increased
emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. Lee et al
(2019 examined the associations between occupational stress, burnout, and well-being
among manufacturing workers in South Korea. Occupational stress was found to be positively
associated with burnout and negatively associated with well-being. Shechter et al (2020)
investigated the relationship between burnout, fatigue, and turnover intentions among
information technology professionals. It confirmed that burnout and fatigue were significant
predictors of turnover intentions, with emotional exhaustion being the strongest predictor.
Sood et al (2021) examined burnout among healthcare professionals in India during the
COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that healthcare professionals experienced high levels
of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment, all
components of burnout.
Shi et al (2018) examine the prevalence of job stress and burnout among healthcare
workers in China. The authors found that job stress and burnout were prevalent among the
participants and that job demands, lack of control, and social support were significant
predictors of job stress and burnout. Wang & Zhao (2019) investigates the mediating role of
job satisfaction in the relationship between job stress and intention to leave among township
health inspectors in China. The result shows that job stress was negatively associated with job
satisfaction and positively associated with intention to leave, and that job satisfaction
partially mediated the relationship between job stress and intention to leave. Zhang et al
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(2019) examine the effects of job stress on psychological well-being among Chinese doctors
and the mediating role of coping strategies. The result shows that job stress was negatively
associated with psychological well-being.
In conclusion, the literature reviewed highlights the harmful impact of job stress on both
mental and physical health. The prevalence of job stress among employees in various
industries, including healthcare, education, and manufacturing, is a cause for concern. Mental
health outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia have been consistently linked to
job stress in various studies, highlighting the need for effective interventions to address this
issue. Additionally, burnout is a common consequence of job stress, leading to emotional,
mental, and physical exhaustion, reduced personal accomplishment, and depersonalization.
The literature reviewed provides a strong basis for the hypothesis that there is a positive
relationship between job stress and mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and
burnout.
Physical Health Outcome
Mental Health Outcome
Figure 1. Research frameworks
Therefore, this study will examine the harmful impact of job stress on physical and
mental health and the factors that contribute to job stress in the workplace. It will also explore
the strategies that organizations can implement to reduce job stress and promote employee
well-being. Finally, it will highlight the importance of policymakers addressing job stress and
promoting healthy workplaces.
Therefore, the following hypotheses were developed
H1: There is a significant relationship between job stress and mental health outcomes such as
depression, anxiety, and burnout.
H2: Job stress significantly impacts physical health outcomes such as cardiovascular diseases,
musculoskeletal disorders, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Research Methodology
This study employed a cross-sectional design to examine the relationships between job
stress, physical pain outcomes, and employee mental health issues. The target population for
this study were employees from various industries aged 25 and above. A larger, more diverse
sample size will be sought to enhance the generalizability of the findings. Participants were
invited to complete the online questionnaires in a single session. Data were collected
Job Stress
Cardiovascular risk
Musculoskeletal
pain
Gastrointestinal
Anxiety &
Depression
Burnout
Insomnia
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anonymously, and participants were given informed consent before starting the survey.
Demographic information such as age, gender, occupation, and years of experience was also
collected.
Ethical considerations should be taken into account throughout the study. Participants
should obtain informed consent, and their confidentiality and privacy should be maintained.
The study should adhere to the ethical guidelines of the relevant professional associations
and regulatory bodies. Participants should also be provided information on available mental
and physical health support and intervention resources.
Data Analysis
A study investigating the harmful impact of job stress on mental and physical health
could use various statistical techniques to explore the relationships between job stress,
mental and physical health outcomes, and potential moderating and mediating variables.
Correlation analysis could examine the relationship between job stress and mental health
outcomes and between job stress and physical health outcomes. Correlation analysis is used
to determine the strength and direction of the relationship. The regression analysis
investigates the impact of job stress on mental health and physical health outcomes.
Regression analysis can identify the unique contribution of job stress after controlling for
other relevant variables. Regression analysis could test the research hypotheses and explore
the potential moderating and mediating effects of variables.
Findings on Physical Health Outcomes
The study found that job stress is positively associated with physical health problems
such as cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and gastrointestinal disorders.
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Findings on Physical Health Outcomes
Table 1
Regression Analysis
The "Multiple R" value of 0.972867471 represents the correlation between job stress
and the combined outcome variables (Cardio pain, Musculoskeletal pain, and Gastrointestinal
pain). It indicates a strong positive correlation between job stress and the outcome variables.
The "R Square" value of 0.946471115 represents the proportion of variance in the combined
outcome variables that can be explained by job stress. The "Adjusted R Square" value of
0.941290901 adjusts the R Square value for the number of outcome variables in the model,
providing a more accurate estimate of the variance explained by the model. The "Standard
Error" value of 1.43270643 represents the average difference between the actual outcome
variable values and the predicted values from the regression model. The "Observations" value
of 35 indicates the number of participants in the study.
The "ANOVA" table shows the analysis of variance results, which tests whether job
stress significantly affects the outcome variables (Cardio pain, Musculoskeletal pain, and
Gastrointestinal pain). The "F" value of 182.7088611 and the very low p-value of 8.70604E-20
suggest that the overall model is statistically significant, indicating that job stress significantly
predicts the combined outcome variables.
The "Coefficients" table shows the results of the regression coefficients for the predictor
variable (job stress). The columns provide the regression coefficient, standard error, t-
statistic, p-value, and confidence intervals. The p-value for the predictor variable indicates
whether the variable significantly affects the outcome variables. In this case, job stress has p-
values less than 0.05 for all three outcome variables, suggesting it significantly affects
cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and Gastrointestinal pain.
Regression Statistics
Multiple R 0.97287
R Square 0.94647
Adjusted R Square 0.94129
Standard Error 1.43271
Observations 35
ANOVA
df SS MS F
Significa
nce F
Regression 3 1125.11 375.037 182.709 8.7E-20
Residual 31 63.6321 2.05265
Total 34 1188.74
Coeffici
ents
Standar
d Error
t Stat P-value
Lower
95%
Upper
95%
Lower
95.0%
Upper
95.0%
Intercept 0.88231 1.31046 0.67329 0.50575 -1.7904 3.55501 -1.7904 3.55501
Cardiovasc
ulor
9.03418 3.32993 2.71302 0.01078 2.24273 15.8256 2.24273 15.8256
Musculosk
eletel
0.87682 0.56334 1.55647 0.12975 -0.2721 2.02575 -0.2721 2.02575
Gastroinste
stinal
6.42753 6.12756 1.04895 0.30231 -6.0697 18.9248 -6.0697 18.9248
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In summary, Table 2 presents the impact of job stress on physical health.
Table 2
Physical Health Outcome
Physical Health
Outcome
Association with Job
Stress
Cardiovascular
diseases
Increased risk
Musculoskeletal
disorders
Positive correlation,
increased pain
Gastrointestinal
disorders
Positive correlation,
increased risk
Findings on Mental Health Outcomes
The study found that job stress is positively associated with mental health outcomes
such as depression, anxiety, and burnout. A positive correlation between job stress and
mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and burnout, and a positive correlation
between job stress and insomnia.
Table 3
Regression Analysis
The “Multiple R” value (0.99516752) indicates a strong positive relationship between
the combined predictor variables (Anxiety & Depression, Burnout, Insomnia) and the
dependent variable (job stress). The R Square value (0.990358393) represents the proportion
of variance in the dependent variable explained by the predictor variables. The model explains
about 99% of the variance in the mental health outcome, suggesting a strong explanatory
power of the predictor variables. The Adjusted R Square value (0.989425334) considers the
number of predictor variables and the sample size. It is slightly lower than the R Square but
still very high, indicating a strong model fit. The Standard Error value (0.608047942) measures
Regression Statistics
Multiple R 0.995168
R Square 0.990358
Adjusted R
Square
0.989425
Standard
Error
0.608048
Observations 35
ANOVA
df SS MS F
Significan
ce F
Regression 3 1177.281 392.4272 1061.411 2.57E-31
Residual 31 11.46139 0.369722
Total 34 1188.743
Coefficie
nts
Standard
Error
t Stat P-value
Lower
95%
Upper
95%
Lower
95.0%
Upper
95.0%
Intercept -0.88389 0.690396 -1.28026 0.20995 -2.29196 0.524183 -2.29196 0.524183
Anx&Dep -0.16066 0.121134 -1.32627 0.194438 -0.40771 0.086397 -0.40771 0.086397
Burnout 0.975988 0.087137 11.20056 2E-12 0.79827 1.153706 0.79827 1.153706
Insomnia 0.057801 0.214335 0.269674 0.789198 -0.37934 0.49494 -0.37934 0.49494
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the average deviation of the predicted values from the actual values. A lower value is
desirable as it indicates a better model fit. The study has 35 observations, which is a relatively
small sample size, potentially limiting the generalizability of the findings to a larger
population.
The ANOVA table presents the analysis of variance, testing whether the predictor
variables (Anxiety & Depression, Burnout, Insomnia) have a significant effect on the
dependent variable (mental health outcome). The F-value (1061.410564) and the very low
Significance F value (2.57186E-31) suggest that the overall model is statistically significant,
indicating that the predictor variables significantly predict the mental health outcome.
The Coefficients indicate the direction and strength of the relationship between each
predictor variable and the dependent variable. The intercept (-0.883889119) represents the
estimated value of the dependent variable when all predictor variables are set to zero.
However, the p-value (0.209949839) for the intercept is greater than the commonly used
significance level of 0.05, indicating that it is not statistically significant. The anxiety &
depression coefficient (-0.160656637) suggests a negative relationship with the dependent
variable. As Anxiety & Depression levels increase, job stress decreases. However, the p-value
(0.194437792) is higher than the commonly used significance level of 0.05, indicating that the
relationship may not be statistically significant. The burnout coefficient (0.975988341)
indicates a positive relationship with the dependent variable, suggesting that higher levels of
burnout contribute to more severe mental health issues due to job stress. The p-value
(1.99842E-12) is much lower than the significance level of 0.05, confirming the statistical
significance of this relationship. The insomnia coefficient (0.05780055) shows a positive but
weak relationship with the dependent variable; however, the p-value (0.789198331) is higher
than the significance level of 0.05, suggesting that the relationship is not statistically
significant.
In summary, Table 2 presents the impact of job stress on mental health.
Table 1
Summary of Mental Health Outcome
Mental Health Outcome
Association with Job Stress
Depression & Anxiety
Positive correlation (low – not significant)
Burnout
Positive correlation
Insomnia
Positive correlation (low – not significant)
Discussion
Based on the findings from the literature review, this study provides evidence that job
stress is a prevalent problem in various industries, and it can have harmful effects on both
physical and mental health. The reviewed studies consistently linked job stress to mental
health problems such as depression, anxiety, burnout, and insomnia. Additionally, physical
health outcomes such as cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, and
gastrointestinal disorders were positively associated with job stress.
The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the relationships between job
stress, mental health issues, and physical pain outcomes. Our analysis revealed strong
positive correlations between job stress and physical pain outcomes (Cardio pain,
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Musculoskeletal pain, and Gastrointestinal pain), as well as between the combined predictor
variables (Anxiety & Depression, Burnout, Insomnia) and job stress. Job stress was found to
be a significant predictor of Cardiovascular pain, Musculoskeletal pain, and Gastro pain,
suggesting that employees experiencing high levels of job stress are more likely to suffer from
these physical symptoms. This finding is consistent with previous research linking job stress
to adverse health outcomes and underscores the importance of addressing job stress as a
public health concern.
In another analysis, Burnout emerged as the primary factor significantly affecting the
severity of mental health issues due to job stress. It suggests that employees experiencing
high levels of burnout are at a greater risk of developing mental health problems.
Interestingly, Anxiety & Depression and Insomnia did not show statistically significant
relationships with the mental health outcome. It could be due to the small sample size or
other factors not considered in the analysis.
Recommendations
Based on the findings of this study, the following suggestions are recommended to
address job stress in the workplace:
Promote Work-Life Balance: Employers should encourage a healthy work-life balance
by implementing flexible work schedules, remote work, and offering paid time off. These
policies can reduce job demands and provide employees with the time and resources they
need to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Such initiatives can also improve
employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention.
Resources for Stress Management: Employers can provide resources for employees to
manage job stress, such as counselling services, mental health resources, and stress reduction
programs. These resources can help employees cope with job stress, promote healthy coping
strategies, and reduce the risk of developing mental and physical health problems.
Address Workplace Culture: Employers should promote a healthy workplace culture
that encourages communication, collaboration, and positive employee relationships. A
positive workplace culture can reduce workplace conflicts, improve job satisfaction, and
reduce the likelihood of developing job stress and associated health problems.
Monitor Workload and Work Environment: Employers should monitor workload and
work environment regularly to identify sources of job stress and implement appropriate
changes. These may include reducing workloads, improving workplace ergonomics, and
training employees on stress management techniques.
Encourage Physical Activity: Employers can encourage employees to engage in physical
activity by providing access to fitness facilities, organizing fitness challenges, or promoting
walking meetings. Physical activity can reduce stress levels, improve physical health, and
improve overall well-being.
In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of understanding the impact of job
stress on employee health and well-being. Employers should recognize and mitigate the
potential health risks associated with job stress, such as providing adequate resources,
reducing job demands, and promoting healthy work environments. Policymakers should also
consider the impact of job stress when formulating workplace policies and regulations.
Addressing job stress in the workplace can lead to a healthier and more productive workforce,
benefitting both employees and organizations.
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Limitations
However, the small sample size of 35 participants is a limitation of the study and may
restrict the generalizability of the findings to a larger population. Future research should aim
to recruit larger and more diverse samples to explore further and validate the relationships
between job stress, mental health issues, and physical pain outcomes.
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