Indians are happier while working from office, global study finds
A recent study conducted by Sapiens Labs, surveyed over 54,000 employees across 65 countries as part of the Global Mind Project. The findings reveal that strong workplace relationships and a sense of purpose are key drivers of mental wellbeing.
In a reversal of sorts, a recent global study highlights a surprising trend: Indian office workers report better mental health than those in hybrid or remote settings. Conducted by Sapiens Labs, the research surveyed over 54,000 employees across 65 countries as part of the Global Mind Project. The findings reveal that strong workplace relationships and a sense of purpose are key drivers of mental wellbeing.
Key Findings
The report, titled “Work Culture & Mental Wellbeing,” challenges conventional views about mental health. It shows that poor relationships with colleagues and a lack of purpose significantly contribute to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and reduced motivation. In contrast, strong connections with coworkers and pride in one’s work enhance mental wellbeing across all job types.
Remarkably, the study found that only 13% of Indian workers reported unmanageable workloads. This figure is lower than the global average of 16% and the US figure of 18%. This suggests that the Indian workforce may be more resilient to workload stress than their global counterparts.
The Importance of Workplace Relationships
Speaking to the media, Tara Thiagarajan, the founder of Sapiens Labs, emphasised the significance of workplace culture. She noted that the quality of relationships at work and a sense of purpose have a profound impact on mental health. The study indicates that these factors affect mental wellbeing even more than traditional work-life balance elements.
For instance, those who rated their workplace relationships poorly reported higher levels of distress. They experienced feelings of detachment, reduced energy, and unwanted thoughts. This highlights that mental health at work is deeply intertwined with interpersonal connections.
Work-life Balance vs. Workplace Culture
While work-life balance factors, such as workload and flexibility, are still important, their impact pales in comparison to workplace relationships. Excess workload can lead to poor sleep, diminished self-worth, and even nightmares. However, lack of flexibility has a much smaller effect on mental health.
Surprisingly, remote workers fared worse than those working in person or hybrid models. This finding contradicts the assumption that remote work offers a better work-life balance. Instead, it shows that working alone can lead to a decline in mental wellbeing.
The Broader Implications
The implications of these findings are significant. They challenge the common narrative that high workloads and toxic environments are the sole culprits of mental health issues. Instead, the focus should shift towards fostering strong workplace relationships and instilling a sense of purpose in employees.
Many organisations can benefit from acknowledging these dynamics. By prioritising relationship-building and creating a culture of purpose, companies may enhance employee wellbeing and productivity. This approach could lead to a more engaged and motivated workforce.
A Call for Change
The study’s insights urge organisations to re-evaluate their mental health strategies. Companies should invest in programs that promote strong interpersonal connections and a sense of belonging. This may include team-building activities, mentorship programs, and open communication channels.
Furthermore, recognising the importance of purpose can guide organisations in aligning individual roles with broader company goals. When employees feel their work matters, their motivation and mental health improve.
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The Sapiens Labs study reveals that strong workplace relationships and a sense of purpose are crucial to positive outcome. As organisations navigate the complexities of modern work culture, they must prioritise these factors to foster a healthier, more engaged workforce. This can totally redefine the current narrative around mental health in the workplace, moving beyond traditional stressors to cultivate an environment where employees thrive.
Access the full report at:
Sapien-Labs-Rapid-Report-Work-Culture-and-Mental-Wellbeing.pdf
