The teleworking boom during the pandemic transformed the way millions of people around the world relate to their work environment. However, what was initially considered An efficient and desirable solution, today raises a silent challenge on behalf of loneliness.
This is noted by a recent report published by Forbes, based on Gallup and Buffer data, which warns that this modality of employment, if not well managed, can have serious consequences for the mental health and social life of workers; Letting it clear that badly worked, it can be a threat.
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First, these analysts pointed out that according to the state of the workplace Global 2024, from the Gallup firm, one in five employees in the world claimed to feel deeply only the previous day and that this figure rises to 23% among those who work in a totally remote way, according to the most recent buffer survey on the state of remote work.
Loneliness even exceeds other common concerns such as communication problems or disconnection with work teams; But beyond being an emotional discomfort, in the work environment it is being recognized as a public health crisis.
Teleworking should not be synonymous with social isolation.
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Thus, they stressed that the United States General Directorate of Health Services warned that the lack of social connection can increase the risk of premature death as well as smoking 15 cigarettes per day and It also relates to depression, anxiety, sleep disorders and high levels of exhaustion.
Roads to face the risk
Faced with this panorama, Forbes proposes five strategies with scientific support to prevent distance work from affecting human relationships and well -being, making it clear that the most important thing is that a mental health expert is consulted in case of facing any anomaly in the field.
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1. Leave home: A change of scenario helps a more effective ways to combat isolation is to work at least one day a week away from home in coworking spaces, libraries, coffee shops or universities that can offer the necessary human environment, since even without direct interaction, being surrounded by people reduces the sensation of isolation. In addition, sharing work sessions with other teleworkors encourages responsibility and strengthens the connection.
2. Take advantage of technology, but with purpose: Technology should not be a barrier, but a tool to generate proximity; So video calls, for example, allow to capture expressions, tone of voice and nonverbal language, which strengthens trust and avoids misunderstandings.
Teleworking should not be synonymous with social isolation.
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It is also recommended to send pregnant video messages to maintain contact more personally; while activities such as virtual coffees or informal video calls are useful to maintain the emotional connection with the equipment.
3. Create and participate in labor social networks: The connections do not have to limit themselves to the professional and for this Forbes suggests to join the internal channels of informal chat, such as pet forums, reading clubs or parents that telework, to share common interests.
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In the same way it is key to propose social spaces such as virtual lunches or thematic cafes, and get involved in organizational events such as Team Buildings or virtual Haups Hours; since these interactions relieve routine and encourage greater sense of belonging.
4. Differentiate work from personal life: One of the risks of teleworking is the blur of limits between working and personal life. That is why it is recommended to create physical spaces and schedules to work, as well as establish rituals at the end of the day such as walking, changing clothes or performing a recreational activity.
In addition, they suggest scheduling social activities outside working hours helps break with routine and maintain active social life.
Teleworking should not be synonymous with social isolation.
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5. Promote an inclusive and connected culture: Finally, the report emphasizes that isolation prevention is not just an individual task, since companies must also promote an inclusive culture, where remote workers feel seen and heard.
This includes guaranteeing their participation in meetings, offering them professional development opportunities and Provide benefits designed for context, such as coworking or continuous training subsidies.
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Thus, the Teleworking remains a valid option for millions of people, Forbes warns that its sustainability depends on how its social and emotional risks are addressed and that preventing isolation requires conscious strategies, organizational support and a continuous disposition to connect with others, because working from home should not mean being alone.
Daniel Hernández Naranjo
Portfolio journalist
