Working from home increases stress

Nearly 54 percent of workers say they feel “more stressed” during the most recent outbreak compared to last year as working from home raises its own challenges, a survey found. A third of respondents receive no mental health support from their companies although they consider this important, a survey by Ho Chi Minh City-based recruitment company Adecco revealed.

Top concerns are safety from Covid-19, long-term financial viability and job security, and career prospects said the survey, which polled 650 respondents nationwide.

Employees also worry about their mental and physical health and the consumption of too much information during the stay-at-home period.

“Besides following directives from the government, leaders should listen to the needs and concerns of their employees to provide timely support,” said Andree Mangels, general director of Adecco Vietnam.

The top requests from workers concerning mental health support are allowing greater work flexibility and promoting healthy a work-life balance.

The survey also found 82 percent of respondents prefer working from home to coming to the office, and they want to spend at least 50 percent of their work hours at home even after the pandemic.

Eight out of ten Gen X respondents (41-56 years old) agree that their managers trust them to get the job done while working remotely. The ratio for Gen Z (under 25 years old) is 67 percent.

The top challenges when working from home are issues with teamwork and communication, distractions, and maintaining motivation.

Respondents also expect support from their companies while working from home. The top requests are monthly allowances, home office setup reimbursements, and flexible working hours.