An extensive study conducted by researchers at the University of South Australia has tracked the effects of remote work on employee well-being over four years, beginning before the Covid-19 pandemic. This long-term research offers a unique perspective on how working from home impacts physical and mental health, revealing that the flexibility to work remotely significantly improves happiness among employees.
Sleep Gains and Reduced Stress Linked to Eliminated Commutes
One of the earliest findings in this study was a notable increase in sleep duration for those working from home. Teleworkers gained nearly half an hour more sleep each night compared to before the pandemic. Researchers attribute this improvement largely to the elimination of daily commuting time, which averaged 4.5 hours per week for the average Australian before the shift to remote work.
The study highlights that time spent commuting is often linked to poorer mental health and a negative perception of one’s health overall. By removing this source of stress and fatigue, working from home directly contributes to better sleep and greater serenity. While a slight rise in alcohol consumption was observed at the start of the pandemic, overall well-being showed a positive trend.
More Time for Work, Family, and Leisure Leads to Healthier Lifestyles
The hours saved from not commuting have been reallocated by workers in several ways. Similar to findings from studies conducted in Spain, the Australian research showed that teleworkers gained as much as ten additional days of free time per year. Approximately one-third of this extra time was spent on leisure activities, which the researchers note encourages more physical activity and reduces sedentary behavior.
Besides reallocating time to work and family responsibilities, remote workers also adopted healthier eating habits. The study found an increase in the consumption of vegetables, fruits, and dairy products, alongside more frequent preparation of meals at home. These changes suggest a deeper shift toward better nutrition linked to working from home.
Productivity Remains Stable and Well-Being Improves When Remote Work Is Chosen
Concerns about remote work often focus on its potential to undermine productivity and weaken social connections within teams. However, the University of South Australia’s findings contradict these worries. The study indicates that professional performance and productivity are maintained or even improved when employees work from home.
A key insight from the research is the importance of choice: when remote work is imposed, as during strict lockdowns, it can negatively affect mental health and well-being. In contrast, when employees voluntarily select remote work, their happiness, and health improve significantly.
This positive effect is even stronger when workers feel supported by their colleagues and employers. Despite challenges in replicating social bonds remotely, the study emphasizes that team cohesion does not necessarily suffer and overall performance remains stable.
Redefining Work With Flexibility and Autonomy
The four-year study offers a broader reflection on how work organization must evolve. Employees who work fully or partly from home report higher job satisfaction and improved well-being, confirming a growing demand for greater flexibility and autonomy in managing professional activities. The researchers argue that working from home is not a universal solution suitable for everyone but rather a valuable option among others.
It can help build more inclusive and adaptable workplaces that respond to diverse lifestyles and needs. The study concludes that the future of work lies in creating tailored arrangements, combining remote and in-person elements to benefit both employees and forward-thinking organizations.