Entering the labor market during the pandemic: the impact of mental health
The transition from school to work is an important phase for the mental health of young adults. During the pandemic, many young people made this step during a challenging period. This project examines their first years in the labor market and the impact of mental health. We use data from the Health Monitor and Statistics Netherlands (CBS). Representatives of labor market entrants are involved in translating the results into practical recommendations.
Goal
This project investigates how mental health during the pandemic has influenced the transition from education to employment among young adults. We begin by mapping the career trajectories of individuals who entered the labor market during or shortly after the pandemic. Next, we examine whether mental health or other personal characteristics have affected these trajectories. The project concludes by translating the insights into recommendations for policymakers, employers, and young adults.
Approach
The target group consists of young adults (ages 18–30) who started their careers during or shortly after the pandemic. Therefore, we link data from the 2020 and 2022 Health Monitor for Adults and the Elderly with data from Statistics Netherlands (CBS). We consider mental health indicators such as anxiety and depression, perceived stress, and loneliness. For labor market entry, we use information when young adults entered the labor market, their contract type, and how long they remained with the same employer. These data allow us to provide empirically grounded recommendations to better prepare for a possible future pandemic and to support vulnerable groups in the present.
Collaboration partners
This project is carried out by TNO. Several youth organizations from social partner networks have expressed their willingness to join the advisory group to reflect on the findings throughout the project and contribute to translating them into well-founded, practical recommendations. In addition, they play a role in the valorization of the research results.
(expected) Results
The results provide insight into what the first years of a career look like for young adults. We then examine to what extent mental health at the start of their career influences these early career years. This knowledge is relevant for several stakeholders: policymakers who need to prepare for the next pandemic and/or to address challenges post-pandemic; employers and professionals who support young adults with mental health challenges during the transition from education to work; and young adults themselves who may be encouraged to seek targeted support when needed. The findings will be translated into a scientific publication, a factsheet, and a public summary with recommendations.