People working from home are more likely to suffer from feelings of isolation and stress as well as sleepless nights, according to a report presented to the British Psychological Society.
The study of 62 journalists found that home workers were more likely to experience negative emotions and symptoms of stress, such as anxiety and frustration.
“The main problem is isolation – when computers crash, for example, there is no help and support immediately available. When people working at home are sick, office-based colleagues cannot see their red noses – and they feel they have to work on,” said Dr Sandi Mann, co-author of the report.
Mann argued that home-based workers needed better technological backup, more emotional support and innovative ways to reduce feelings of isolation.
Sign up to our weekly round-up of HR news and guidance
Receive the Personnel Today Direct e-newsletter every Wednesday
By Ben Willmott