Combating Loneliness in Hybrid Work Environments | Nalaverse
Loneliness and social isolation have become increasingly prevalent in today's society.
A more remote workforce post-pandemic, and a general shift toward hybrid work environments, has only exacerbated the issue.
Humans are naturally social creatures—a decrease in face-to-face interaction that was once provided by the workplace, leaves many employees feeling even more disconnected and isolated from their colleagues, and community, at large. This can have a significant impact on both mental and physical wellbeing, as well as overall job performance.
According to a recent advisory by US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, loneliness and social isolation are associated with a range of negative health outcomes, including increased risk of anxiety, depression, and premature mortality, among other health issues. This issue is especially felt in marginalized communities, like the Black and LGBTQ+ community, who already face systemic barriers to inclusion and belonging in the workplace. Loneliness and social isolation as prompted by remote work, therefore, can exacerbate these feelings of exclusion, leading to more adverse outcomes on mental health, well-being, and workplace productivity.
In order to combat this growing issue, the advisory proposed a framework, based on six foundational pillars, in order to advance the National Strategy to Advance Social Connection. Among these, strengthening social infrastructure and cultivating a culture of connection are especially relevant pillars for a healthy, interconnected workplace. Strengthening social infrastructure involves support programming and workplace structure that encourage connection and inclusion. Cultivating a culture of connection, on the other hand, looks like promoting a supportive work culture where employees feel valued and motivated to engage with one another.
Here are more strategies organizations can adopt to reduce this “epidemic of loneliness,” and foster connection among employees.
1. Social Connection
A workplace that prioritizes communication, collaboration, and teamwork can help employees feel more connected to their colleagues and to the organization as a whole. This can include virtual team-building activities, social events, and employee resource groups focused on mental and physical well-being.
2. Flexible Work Arrangements
Providing employees with flexible work arrangements, such as the option to work from home or adjust their schedules, can also help alleviate feelings of social isolation and increase work-life balance. This can also provide opportunities for employees to engage in social activities outside of work and build relationships in their immediate communities.
3. Self-Care
Employers can promote self-care by providing access to resources that support mental and physical health, such as counseling services, mindfulness training, and fitness classes. Encouraging employees to prioritize self-care can help prevent burnout and improve overall well-being, which in turn can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction.
4. Employee Resource Groups
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are voluntary, employee-led groups that focus on fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. By supporting the creation and growth of ERGs, employees have a space to connect with colleagues with similar backgrounds, interests, or experiences, replacing feelings of isolation with belonging.
Conclusion:
At Nalaverse, we understand the importance of social connection and its impact on employee well-being and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). By partnering with us, our tailored employee wellness programs can fit the needs of your workplace and promote overall well-being. We offer customized live group classes, on-demand wellness resources, and team challenges to help your team stay balanced, focused, and ready for the challenges ahead, while also supporting a certified minority- and woman-owned business enterprise (MWBE).
Employers who prioritize social connection and interconnectedness between employees contribute to slowing the prevalence of loneliness within an increasingly remote, and hybrid, workforce. Not only does this help create a positive work culture and boost productivity, but it also creates an environment where all employees feel supported from a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) perspective. Partnering with Nalaverse means you can improve your team’s well-being while also supporting a certified MWBE and increasing your supplier diversity. Together, we can build a healthier, happier, and more connected workplace culture.
