Job stress and loneliness among remote workers

Miyake, F.; Odgerel, C.-O.; Hino, A.; Ikegami, K.; Nagata, T.; Tateishi, S.; Tsuji, M.; Matsuda, S.; Ishimaru, T.

Background: To prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), physical distancing and isolation are crucial strategies in society. However, this response to the pandemic promotes loneliness. Previous studies have reported an increase in loneliness since the outbreak of COVID-19, but there is little evidence on the relationship between job stress and loneliness among remote workers. Aims: To assess the relationship between job stress and loneliness among remote workers. Methods: This study is a part of nation-wide cross-sectional online survey evaluating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. A total of 27,036 full-time workers completed the self-administrated questionnaire in December 2020. We extracted data on 4,052 desk workers who indicated that they were doing remote work. Loneliness was assessed using a single question and job stress was measured using the Job Content Questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression was performed. Results: Frequency of remote work was moderately associated with loneliness (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.60, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04-2.46, P = 0.033). Participants who reported of having a low level of co-worker or supervisor support had greater odds of feeling lonely than those who were highly supported (co-worker support: AOR = 4.06, 95% CI: 2.82-5.84, P <0.001; supervisor support: AOR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.79-3.47, P <0.001). Conclusions: Co-worker support and supervisor support were strongly associated with loneliness, whereas frequency of remote work was moderately associated with feeling lonely. Support from co-workers and supervisors may be crucial factors to prevent loneliness caused by remote work.