As the world grapples with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the mental health of individuals, particularly those engaged in remote work, has emerged as a critical concern.
In this news report, we explore a recent study conducted by Michael Koch, Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management & Organisational Behaviour at Brunel University London, and Sarah Park, Professor in International Business at the University of Leicester. The study investigates the impact of psychological distress on workplace productivity, with a focus on remote work scenarios.
Understanding the Link Between Stress and Workplace Productivity:
The study draws on data from the Understanding Society COVID-19 survey, providing insights into the experiences and reactions of the UK general public during the pandemic.
According to the findings, the perceived risk of contracting COVID-19 during the early stages of the pandemic was associated with higher levels of psychological distress. This distress, in turn, led to lower self-rated productivity at work.
The Role of Willpower and Self-Regulation:
Koch and Park propose that psychological distress depletes an individual’s capacity for self-regulation, commonly known as willpower. Self-regulation is crucial for managing emotions, suppressing unpleasant thoughts, and navigating uncertain situations, all of which contribute to maintaining productivity at work.
The study suggests that prolonged worry, such as concerns about COVID-19, reduces the available willpower, impacting one’s ability to perform well on the job.
Unique Challenges for Remote Workers:
The study reveals that remote workers, in particular, are more vulnerable to the impact of psychological distress on productivity. The shift to remote work resulted in fewer spontaneous interactions with colleagues, hindering the exchange of knowledge and emotional support.
Additionally, blurred boundaries between work and home life, a common challenge in remote work, further depleted individuals’ capacity for self-regulation, making it harder for them to stay productive.
Self-Employed Individuals and Gender Disparities:
The research highlights that self-employed individuals, who already face challenges such as income insecurity and long working hours, experienced heightened difficulties during the pandemic. The combination of existing stressors and the unique challenges posed by the COVID-19 situation made it more challenging for self-employed individuals to maintain productivity.
Furthermore, the study reveals that the negative impact on productivity is particularly pronounced among self-employed women. The intersection of psychological distress, self-employment status, and gender contributes to a significant decline in productivity for this group.
Strategies for Coping and Maintaining Productivity:
In light of the findings, the researchers suggest several strategies to help individuals cope with stress and uphold productivity:
- Seek Support: Whether from family, friends, or colleagues, a support system is crucial for combating psychological distress.
- Recovery Time: Allow sufficient time for recovery after a stressful event, emphasizing the importance of adequate sleep and breaks from work.
- Employer Support: Employers can play a role in supporting their workforce by promoting peer support, increasing autonomy, and providing a voice in decision-making.
- Remote Work Considerations: Organizations should prioritize support for remote workers, offering frequent and detailed feedback, as well as establishing guidelines to maintain healthy boundaries between work and home life.
- Self-Employed Strategies: Self-employed individuals, especially women, may benefit from joining peer support groups to address domestic demands and work-family conflicts.
As the world moves beyond pandemic-era lockdowns, the study by Koch and Park emphasizes the enduring importance of mental health in the workplace. Recognizing the link between psychological distress and productivity, the research provides valuable insights for individuals, employers, and policymakers to create supportive environments that foster well-being and sustained productivity.
Leave a Reply