Changes in mental well-being, blood pressure and total cholesterol levels during workplace reorganization: the impact of uncertainty

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of uncertainty caused by large-scale workplace reorganization, on psychological well-being, blood pressure and total cholesterol levels. Employees (98 women and 86 men) wer e assessed four times, at approximately 6-monthly intervals, twice before a nd twice after reorganization. Self-reported psychological well-being was a t its lowest level shortly prior to reorganization, as predicted, Greater s elf-reported uncertainty about One's Own future occupational situation was associated with a bigger reduction in mental well-being before reorganizati on, as was role ambiguity after reorganization. Systolic blood pressure was elevated over initial levels just prior to reorganization, and shortly aft er reorganization, but A the final assessment was not significantly differe nt from initial levels. A bigger increase in systolic blood pressure was se en in those reporting greater future job uncertainty before reorganization, and in those who started a new job or who reported greater role ambiguity after reorganization. Diastolic blood pressure was also significantly eleva ted over initial levels just before reorganization, but this effect became nonsignificant once changes in body mass index were statistically controlle d. Total cholesterol also reached its highest level just prior to reorganiz ation, but this effect was not significant. It is Concluded that workplace reorganization caused significant increases in distress and in systolic blo od pressure and that uncertainty contributed to theme effects.