Creating supportive hybrid workplaces that boost mental wellbeing

A few short years ago, remote working was a luxury few people could even comprehend. Today, remote and hybrid working have become common place – and like all forms of work, there are positives and negatives.

First, it’s important to note that employees want to work remotely, or to at least have a hybrid option. According to Gallup, six in 10 employees with remote-capable jobs want a hybrid work arrangement and about one-third prefer fully remote work. Less than 10% prefer to work on-site.

Let’s take a look at the advantages listed by Gallup’s survey:

Improved work-life balance (76%)

More efficient use of my time throughout the day/week (64%)

Less burnout or fatigue at work (61%)

More freedom to choose when or where I work (57%)

Higher productivity (52%)

Remote work has gained significant popularity due to its various psychological benefits. One of the most notable advantages is the increased flexibility it offers. Employees have the autonomy to design their work schedules around personal commitments, which can lead to a better work-life balance. This flexibility reduces the stress associated with commuting and rigid office hours, allowing individuals to manage their time more effectively. Consequently, employees often report higher job satisfaction and increased productivity, as they can work during their most productive hours without the typical office distractions.

Another psychological benefit is the potential for a more comfortable and personalised work environment. Working from home allows individuals to create a workspace that suits their needs, which can enhance their overall well-being. The familiarity and comfort of one’s home can reduce anxiety and stress levels, contributing to a more positive and relaxed state of mind. Additionally, remote work can foster a sense of autonomy and control over one's work, which is a crucial factor in job satisfaction and overall mental health. The absence of constant supervision can empower employees to take initiative and feel more confident in their roles.

Challenges and negative effects

Despite these benefits, remote work can also pose several challenges to mental health. According to Gallup, employees are recognising some issues, including:

Less access to work resources and equipment (31%)

Feel less connected to my organisation’s culture (28%)

Decreased collaboration with my team (24%)

Impaired working relationship with coworkers (21%)

Reduced cross-functional communication and collaboration (18%)

Disrupted processes (17%)

More difficult to coordinate work schedules, tasks and timelines with my teammates (17%)

One significant issue is the feeling of isolation that can arise from the lack of in-person interaction with colleagues. The social aspect of work is vital for many people, and the absence of casual conversations and team camaraderie can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnection. Over time, this isolation can contribute to depression and a sense of detachment from the workplace, negatively impacting mental well-being.

Another challenge is the blurring of boundaries between work and personal life. When the home becomes the office, it can be difficult to switch off from work mode, leading to longer working hours and burnout. This lack of clear separation can create a constant sense of being ‘on call,’ which increases stress and reduces the time available for relaxation and personal activities. Additionally, remote work requires a high level of self-discipline and time management skills. Without the structure of a traditional office environment, some individuals may struggle with procrastination, leading to increased pressure and anxiety as deadlines approach.

Creating a supportive workspace

Employers can play a pivotal role in ensuring that remote work is beneficial for their employees by creating a workspace that supports their needs. One effective approach is to provide resources and tools that enhance productivity and comfort. This can include offering ergonomic office furniture, high-quality technology, and access to necessary software. By investing in these resources, employers can help employees create a comfortable and efficient home office setup, which can significantly reduce physical strain and improve overall well-being.

Additionally, employers should encourage a culture of flexibility and trust. Allowing employees to set their own schedules, as long as they meet their work responsibilities, can help them balance personal and professional commitments. Regular check-ins and open communication channels can also foster a sense of inclusion and support. Managers should be trained to recognise signs of stress and burnout and to offer assistance proactively. By creating an environment where employees feel valued and supported, employers can enhance job satisfaction and motivation.

Supporting mental health and preventing challenges

To address the mental health challenges associated with remote work, employers can implement several measures. One of the most important strategies is promoting social interaction and a sense of community. Virtual team-building activities, regular video meetings, and informal virtual coffee breaks can help mitigate feelings of isolation. Creating opportunities for employees to connect on a personal level can strengthen team cohesion and support mental well-being.

Employers can also provide access to mental health resources. This can include offering employee assistance programs that provide confidential counselling services and ensuring that mental health coverage is included in health insurance plans. Regular workshops and training sessions on stress management, mindfulness, and work-life balance can equip employees with the skills they need to manage their mental health effectively.

Proactively preventing burnout is also crucial. Set clear expectations about work hours and encourage employees to take regular breaks and use their vacation time. Implementing policies that discourage after-hours work and promoting a culture that values work-life balance can help employees recharge and maintain their mental health. Providing training on time management and productivity techniques can help employees manage their workload more effectively and reduce stress.

Putting employees first for better businesses

At Quest, we take great pride in our teams’ efforts and visionary approach to establish a powerful and pioneering brand within the industry. Our employees are the backbone of our exceptional staffing and recruitment services. Their expertise, honed over years of experience, ensures that we deliver nothing short of the best solutions to our clients. Beyond their skills, our team’s dedication to customer centricity, a core value of our business, drives them to go the extra mile to understand and meet our clients’ unique needs with precision and care. As a leading provider of flexible staffing recruitment solutions, our compliant and fully managed services are supported by solid data, experienced leadership, and a strong financial foundation.