Remote work increases psychological distress for workers living alone

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Remote work has the potential to increase the risk of mental health disorders in the long term, particularly among workers who live alone, according to recent research published in the journal Science.

Citing Psychology Today on Tuesday, the study analysed data from more than 500,000 adults in the United States by comparing workers in jobs that can be done remotely with jobs that require physical presence.

The findings showed that remote workers spend on average about one hour longer alone each day compared to non-remote workers. This condition is accompanied by increased levels of psychological distress, depression, anxiety and feelings of loneliness.

Remote workers who live with their families did not experience significant increases in psychological pressure or time spent alone. In contrast, workers living alone were recorded as spending more time by themselves and experienced increased psychological distress.

The research also found that workers who had only recently switched to remote working had not yet experienced an increase in mental health disorders. This finding indicates that such effects tend to emerge after remote work has been carried out over a longer period.

Nevertheless, remote work does not always have a negative impact. Citing a report by Neurobridge, neurodivergent workers, including those with autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), actually view full return-to-office policies as one of their sources of stress.

Flexible or hybrid working arrangements may be a more suitable option for some neurodivergent workers, as face-to-face social interaction does not always provide a positive experience.

The findings suggest that the impact of remote work cannot be generalised, as it is influenced by a range of factors, from living arrangements and individual characteristics to the culture and transport systems of each country.