Full-time working Mums are healthier at the age of 40 than stay-at-home mums and mums who work part-time, according to new research out of the US.
The study, conducted by Professor Adrianne Frech from Ohio’s University of Akron and Sarah Damaske from Pennsylvania State University, found that the choices women make early in their professional careers can affect their health later in life.
By analysing long-term data on 2,540 women who became mothers between 1978 and 1995, the research found women who returned to full-time work shortly after having children reported better mental and physical health.
In particular, they reported better mobility, more energy and less depression at age 40.
In commenting on the research, Frech said in a statement: “Work is good for your health, both mentally and physically … It gives women a sense of purpose, self-efficacy, control and autonomy.”
What do you think? Does returning to work full-time hurt or hinder your health?