There is a causal link between unemployment and the deterioration in h
ealth status, but there is also an act of selection so that people wit
h health problems have more problems in getting a new job. Unemployed
men, especially the young, increase their alcohol consumption as compa
red with employed referents. Unemployed persons are smokers to a great
er extent than employed persons, and smokers have a higher risk of bec
oming unemployed. Psychological indicators have been studied well in c
onnection with health effects of unemployment. Losing, or gaining, emp
loyment has clear effects on psychiatric symptoms and on well-being. T
he death rate is increased among unemployed persons.