Remote Employee Wellness: How to Reduce Employee Burnout

While working from home has had a positive impact on millions of workers’ mental health and wellbeing, for many, there are still some negatives to this 'new normal’.

According to research by ThinkRemote, 86% of remote workers report experiencing burnout in their current positions, as opposed to 70% of in-person workers. While many employers may argue that working remotely contributes to a healthier work-life balance, many employees disagree. During the pandemic, 61% of remote workers found it difficult to ‘unplug’ after work, while over half of remote employees reported working more hours than they did in the office.

Additionally, a lack of social interaction can have an adverse effect on remote workers’ wellbeing. A Buffer report showed that remote workers’ number one struggle is staying home often without a reason to leave (21%), followed by loneliness (15%).

To combat remote employee burnout, employers should:

• Establish clear boundaries
• Promote work-life balance
• Foster clear communication
• Provide mental health resources
• Offer flexibility and autonomy
• Invest in professional development
• Lead by example  

Let’s explore each of these in more detail.

Offer access to mental health resources such as counselling services, Employee Assistance Programs, and mindfulness workshops. It’s also important to start at the bottom by normalising conversations around mental health – encourage your employees to voice their concerns so you can promote a supportive and inclusive work culture.

By implementing strategies to reduce burnout and promote wellbeing, businesses can create a supportive and thriving remote work culture where employees can thrive both personally and professionally.

The best way to lead by example is to show your commitment to employee health – and that starts with great international health insurance. Provide your employees with access to private healthcare while abroad with Allianz Partners.