Now is a crucial time for workers, for the sake of their mental health, to be discussing pandemic-related challenges with their managers, but nearly half of Australian workers are uncomfortable initiating these important conversations, according to research released with two guides on the issue.
Standing, treadmill and cycling desks improve workers' cognitive performance, and can counteract the increase in sedentary behaviour associated with pandemic-forced working-from-home arrangements, Australian researchers say.
Pervasive wellbeing myths that block employers from improving their workers' wellbeing, and can waste time and money, include that paid mental health leave "cures" burnout, and wellbeing apps can replace social support, a new report has warned.
Australian researchers have found pandemic-era working arrangements are helping workers manage the work impacts of a serious health condition that affects many women and costs billions of dollars in lost productivity.
COVID-driven telework arrangements, which are likely to become permanent practices, are creating new psychosocial risks arising from "intense virtual team collaboration", and must be managed, according to a major study by Europe's peak work safety body.
A pandemic-era study has shown that workers' experiences with flexible work have been "very positive", with benefits to wellbeing, while highlighting gaps in WHS support for these workers. It has identified seven elements that support safe flexible work.