Remote work has shifted from a temporary solution to a permanent fixture in how many of us operate. While the flexibility has its benefits, it has also raised serious questions about mental health — not just for individual team members, but for how organisations support wellbeing long-term.
From loneliness and burnout to blurred work-life boundaries, business owners and operations leads have a vital role to play in shaping healthy remote work experiences. Here's what you need to know.
Does working remotely affect mental health?
Yes, it can — and for many people, it already has. According to research by Nuffield Health, 80% of Brits said working from home negatively affected their mental health. For some, the absence of commuting and the comfort of home have improved wellbeing. But for others, the lack of structure, physical separation, and social interaction has created new stressors.
Mental health challenges associated with remote work include:
The full-time return to office isn’t the only answer. What matters is access to a variety of environments that suit different work styles. That’s where flexible workspace solutions come in — giving your team more choice in how and where they work, while improving mental health outcomes across the board.
Are fully remote workers happier?
Not necessarily. The idea that remote equals happiness is overly simplistic. Fully remote workers report both high satisfaction and high stress — depending on how their role, company culture, and personal preferences align.
The happiest remote workers typically have:
Autonomy over their schedule
Purpose-built workspaces (not just a laptop on the sofa)
In many cases, yes. Loneliness is one of the most common — and most overlooked — challenges of remote work. A TotalJobs survey found that 74% of young workers experienced loneliness during lockdown. But this isn’t just a problem for Gen Z.
People of all ages report a loss of informal chats, shared jokes, and peer support. Video calls serve a purpose, but they don’t replace spontaneous interactions or the sense of being part of something bigger.
Some ways to combat loneliness among remote teams:
Encourage regular social check-ins — not just project updates
Introverts may thrive without the sensory overload of an office. But that doesn’t mean remote work is always better. Just like extroverts, introverts need structure, stimulation, and a sense of connection — they may just prefer it on their own terms.
Some introverts find constant Zoom meetings more draining than in-person chats. Others struggle to make themselves visible and heard in distributed teams. What works best is flexibility: letting people shape their day around when they feel most energised.
For introverts and extroverts alike, having different spaces available — from quiet hot desks to breakout areas — helps create a more sustainable rhythm.
5 ways to support mental health when working remotely
1. Work outside your home when possible
A change of scene can reset your mindset. Whether it’s a coworking space, local library, or day office, getting out of the house helps separate work from home life and boosts motivation.
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve mental health. You don’t need a fancy routine — a 20-minute walk at lunch can clear your head and reduce stress.
If your workspace is near a park or gym, consider integrating movement into your day. Some flexible offices even offer on-site fitness amenities to make this easier.
3. Keep up social interaction
Book in a virtual coffee chat. Attend a local meetup. Work from a shared space one day a week. Connection matters, and you don’t have to leave it to chance.
4. Set clear work-life boundaries
Without the natural cues of a commute or office shutdown, it’s easy to work longer than you intended. Set a consistent start and finish time. Avoid working from your bed or sofa. Schedule proper breaks and actually take them.
Working remotely shouldn’t come at the cost of your sleep. Avoid late-night screen time, and don’t use your bedroom as an office. A dedicated workspace — even a small one — can make a big difference to your mental clarity and sleep hygiene.
The role of workspace in remote wellbeing
Mental health and workspace design are deeply connected. The physical environments we work in shape how we feel, focus, and function.
If you’re fully remote, providing employees with coworking access or day passes allows them to choose a setup that supports their productivity and wellbeing. For hybrid teams, having a welcoming and well-designed HQ is essential — not just for collaboration, but for identity and belonging.
Businesses that invest in thoughtful, flexible workspace options are better equipped to support mental health and retain great people.
Creating a healthier remote work culture
Remote work is here to stay — but mental health challenges don’t have to be. By creating the right support systems, offering workspace choice, and staying open to what your team needs, you can build a healthier, more sustainable way of working.
Whether you're fully remote, hybrid, or somewhere in between, Tally Workspace helps you find spaces that work for your team — wherever they are.
Talk to our team to learn how Tally Workspace can support your team’s wellbeing through better workspace solutions.
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