Building Better Understanding – Homeworking and Wellbeing

With more and more people working or studying from home, the past few months have been very different in many respects. Now researchers from the University of Derby and the University of Nottingham have launched a research project to understand more about the wellbeing of those now at home.

The study aims to understand the consequences of adjusting to new work environments and conditions, with a particular focus on three aspects of wellbeing – diet, exercise, and mental health – and their effects on work productivity.

These areas of wellbeing have been associated with increased work satisfaction and productivity. Therefore, this research will aid understanding of how they are affected when a major incidence, such as COVID-19, changes work practices and everyday behaviours.

Dr Maratos, Associate Professor and Reader in Emotion Science at the University of Derby, said:

Substantial changes in working conditions, as well as stringent social restrictions, are likely to impact upon all aspects of an individual’s life. As such, it is extremely important to understand what behaviours and indices of well-being have changed due to COVID-19, and how.

Knowing this will not only allow for the screening of certain factors that predict productivity and behaviour change, but also potentially help inform the develop of interventions to aid individuals during this and future crises.

The online survey asks questions regarding changes in eating habits, physical activity, and anyone over the age of 18 who is based in the UK and working from home can take part.