Stress can affect work ability. The aim of this study was to identify how this pathway is mediated over time in young adults. Participants of the Work Ability in Young Adults cohort were selected. A theoretical framework was built, which lead to a statistical model. Selected dimensions of mediators were recovery, work demands affecting private life, feelings of control over private life, and physical activity in leisure time. A quadruple serial mediation model was built with four mediators. The total effect of stress on work ability was -0.3955, 95% CI [-0.4764, -0.3146]. The total indirect effect amounted to 81% with an effect of -0.3182, 95% CI [-0.3750, -0.2642]. The relationship between stress and Work Ability Score five years later in young adults was mediated by stress five years later, work demands affecting private life, feelings of control over private life and feeling well-rested upon waking. These results indicate that work demands affecting private life and feelings of control over private life are important mediators of the relationship between stress and work ability in young adults. A well-balanced relationship between work and private life can counteract the influence of stress on work ability in this age group.
Keywords: Mediation; sustainable employability; work ability score; work-private life balance.