Hybrid workers take fewer sick days, are less stressed and enjoy improved levels of health and wellbeing, according to new research by Censuswide on over 4,000 hybrid workers across the US and UK.
The study, commissioned by International Workplace Group, found that more than a third of hybrid employees are taking fewer sick days now that they have some flexibility over how and where they work. The benefits do not end there, with 74% of hybrid workers making time for preventative healthcare such as regular screenings, check-ups and lifestyle changes.
Hybrid working, where workers split their time between a local workspace, their head office and home, offers greater flexibility, improved work-life balance and significant financial savings for workers and businesses, as well as important health benefits according to the latest research. 70% experience fewer stress-related healthcare conditions in the hybrid model, while 72% can better manage any existing health conditions.
The findings come as recent research by Bloomberg showed that rising sick days are costing businesses and the economy billions annually, and long-term sickness is taking over a HK$300 billion toll on productivity, with this number expected to double by the end of the decade. Impaired employee well-being notably leads to substantial productivity and economic losses. Globally, mental disorders affected 16% of the workforce in 2021, costing an estimated US$1 trillion (approximately HK$7.8 trillion), according to the Research Office of the Legislative Council Secretariat. The Paper also notes that in Hong Kong, various studies since 2016 have indicated that at least 27% of employed individuals experience mental illness or unmanageable workplace stress, resulting in annual economic losses of HK$14.9 billion due to sickness absences and presenteeism. Beyond physical health benefits, hybrid employees also benefit from a significant reduction in stress and an improvement in their overall mental well-being.
The reduced time spent on long daily commutes is cited as a key factor in helping to reduce overall stress levels for 80% of hybrid workers, which also provides employees with a better work-life balance and reduced feelings of anxiety. This has had a direct effect on health conditions related to stress, with 70% of employees experiencing fewer symptoms such as severe headaches, digestive issues, and tension-related pain.
Extended working hours in Hong Kong significantly correlate with mental health issues. With nearly 30% of Hong Kong employees working 48 to 59 hours per week, and an additional 10% exceeding 60 hours, the city’s extreme work culture is undeniable. Compounding this, research by CTgoodjobs published in the 2024 Hong Kong Workplace Happiness Index Survey also revealed that stress levels among Hong Kong employees remained alarmingly high, with the average workplace stress index sitting at 6.68 in 2024. AXA’s Study of Mind Health and Wellbeing 2024 echoes these sentiments and revealed that the persistent high-stress environment and excessive working hours were taking a toll on employee mental and physical health. This is manifest in extreme fatigue, uncontrollable anxiety, sleep disorders and eating disturbances—all of which demonstrably hinder work performance and prompt increased sick leave.
Physical and mental health in the workplace remains a critical challenge in Hong Kong. Although workplace wellbeing is gaining traction, and there are multiple governmental discussions on statutory measures such as the “right to disconnect” law, standard working hours and regular mental wellbeing checks, employers must do more than simply passively observe their employees. The adoption of hybrid working will be a crucial step and solution that improves employees’ work-life balance, ultimately fostering a healthier and more productive workplace that also drives robust business growth.
Reducing the physical and mental strain of long daily commutes, workers can better manage their existing health conditions, access preventative care and reduce stress.
Dr Sara Kayat, NHS GP
Dr Sara Kayat, NHS GP, commented, “It's clear from this research that hybrid working models are offering employees not only greater flexibility but also tangible health benefits. By reducing the physical and mental strain of long daily commutes, workers can better manage their existing health conditions, access preventative care and reduce stress. This is not only improving their overall wellbeing but also helping businesses by reducing the costs associated with absenteeism and burnout.” Dr Sara Kayat went on to share tips for hybrid employees looking to optimise their health in the long term.
Tips to optimise employee health
- Schedule "me time" for preventative health | Take advantage of a flexible schedule to book important health check-ups and screenings. Whether it is a physical or a dental appointment, having the flexibility to fit these into your day means you're not waiting for a sick day to prioritise your health. Small steps now can prevent big health issues later.
- Join local workout groups for fun and fitness | Employees are increasingly turning to exercise to for a sense of community and to build social connections. This can be seen through the rise in local running groups or community exercises. It is about more than just moving, rather, about community and connection.
- Prepare foods that fuel your brain | One of the greatest benefits of hybrid working is that employees now have more time to prepare balanced and nutritious meals that leave them feeling energised. Whole foods like leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains can improve focus and energy. Try a spinach and quinoa salad or a berry and almond butter smoothie for a brain-boosting meal. These don’t take long to make and can be enjoyed either at work or on the go.
Mark Dixon, CEO, International Workplace Group, noted, "Hybrid and more flexible ways of working are incredibly beneficial for both employees and their employers. Not only is it universally popular with workers with higher levels of satisfaction and an improved work-life balance reported, but as this research shows, employees are taking fewer sick days, managing stress better, and adopting healthier lifestyles. Meanwhile, companies are enjoying higher levels of productivity and lower costs."
A healthier and happier workforce is also translating into positive business outcomes. A survey of 500 C-suite executives in June 2024 by Censuswide revealed that 75% of CEOs acknowledge that hybrid work has led to improved productivity, with 77% saying employees have become more engaged in their work because of flexible work arrangements.
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
