45% of people agree that technological developments have either a mildly positive or extremely positive impact on workplace well-being.
Technology has allowed us the opportunity to work flexibly and to become more integrated by quicker and simpler connectivity.
On the flip side, technology can mean that people find it impossible to turn off from work and can experience frustration created by delays in technology – all of which have a negative effect on health.
Wearable Technology
Wearable technology, such as Apple watches and Fitbits, plays a central role in the everyday lives of many people. In 2017, 17% of people in the UK had a wearable device, and this number has been increasing year on year.
Wearable devices also provide an opportunity to recognise the physical signs of stress, so they can be a powerful tool to help keep track of and properly manage their mental health – especially when they are used as a complement to similar apps designed to support mental health.
Flexible Working
Technology empowers us to work whenever and wherever we want, to arrange our working hours around personal obligations, or around when we are most productive – some people have their best ideas before dawn or after dinner!
Addressing the balance between work and life is essential to health. A significant percentage of employees believe long hours affecting a work-life balance was a significant source of job stress. Enabling workers to work remotely or from home ensures that they can maintain a healthy balance, thereby having a positive effect on their emotional well-being.
There are a number of digital solutions that can help you stay connected to your workforce wherever you might work. Aside from ensuring that they have the necessary equipment such as laptops and mobile phones, think about ways to make connectivity even easier – file sharing sites, video calling, and instant messaging can all help employees work smarter.
Virtual GP Services
Digital GP systems are also another health technology that is growing in number and success. About one quarter (23%) of employers provide access to GP care as a contribution to their employees’ health and well-being.
Such programmes provide virtual appointments with GPs, most often by smartphone or webcam. Some often offer these appointments 24/7, allowing staff to connect with a GP anytime at their convenience.
The quick availability of a virtual GP service could lead to workers being more likely to take care of their well-being, rather than being delayed by lengthy waiting times in person to see a GP. That, in effect, may have a positive influence on absenteeism and productivity, because when it is needed, workers will get the support they need.
Whether you are using technology for your own personal health journey or bettering your day to day well-being, there are many ways that technology can help. We live in a society where technology is prevalent in every corner of our lives, and health and well-being is one where tech has made great advancements in how it can assist you.
To read more on topics like this, check out the Lifestyle category.
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