Academic precarity and mental health: reviewing the domains of precarity “of”, “at”, and “from” work

Precarious work and job insecurity are prevailing norms in academia which is concerning due to its negative impact on academics’ wellbeing. Drawing from Allan et al.’s (2021) tripartite framework, which distinguishes precarity “of”, “at”, and “from” work, this chapter reviews existing literature on academic precarity. It reveals that precarious employment amplifies the risk of mental health challenges, including stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. Such conditions also engender insecurity and feelings of inadequacy, eroding the self-esteem and confidence of academics. Moreover, the stress associated with job insecurity can lead to physical health issues like psychosomatic ailments, poor sleep quality, and chronic illnesses. Particularly alarming is the heightened vulnerability of early career researchers, female academics, and minority group members to these adverse effects of precarity. In response, we advocate for dedicated research and policy initiatives aimed at reshaping the higher education sector and ameliorating the damaging consequences of precarity on academics.