https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/LNU00074597
I had to go to the source to make sure you weren’t doing some selective editing where you started the graph. Nope, it was at about the same level between 2015 and Jan 2020. But, there was a similar slope in the increase between 2010 and 2015.
I wonder what other factors might play in to increases/decreases of “disability”. Is there an economic factor to it?
“Well, my back hurts but I’m making good money so I’ll keep working.”
“I can barely make ends meet with this lousy job and no good prospects. I think now is the time to get a note from my doctor about my bad back and go on disability.”
But yeah - the VAX sure seems like the obvious one here.
I recently made assertions regarding voter turnout in Kansas related to an abortion ballot measure. Unwittingly, I was relying on data results that were not properly updated. Another FReeper noticed the discrepancy and brought it to my attention. As it turned out, the basis for my point was no longer valid. But that said, I very much appreciated the cross checking.
>> historically similar slopes...
A few FReepers noticed that COVID-19 cured the flu
>> I wonder what other factors might play in to ...
No doubt. Also, many refuse to return to work at the office simply on the principle of necessity.