Statewide Iowa (RI) — New research shows more than 20 percent of Iowans are now working from home, something that’s become much more common since the pandemic, but the option can also take a toll on Iowans’ physical and mental health.
Amanda Westphal, a community benefits specialist with an Iowa-based health system, says some people have very little human interaction all day, even to the extent of having their meals and their groceries delivered.
Westphal says it’s crucial that people who work from home develop a healthy balance between their personal and professional lives, and she says human contact is vital.
While working remotely has distinct advantages, like no commute time and being able to work in comfy clothes, Westphal says you need to build human contact into your routine.
She suggests establishing boundaries, like working a set schedule and not letting work interfere with your personal life after hours, or removing the work email app from your personal phone.
KIWA Staff Photo
