More than two-fifths (44 per cent) of Canadian employees in a hybrid working arrangement say they’re taking fewer sick days, according to a new survey by International Workplace Group.

The survey, which polled more than 1,000 Canadian employees working in a hybrid arrangement, found 71 per cent said they experienced fewer stress-related health issues and the same percentage said the flexibility helped them better manage existing health conditions.

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Nearly three-quarters (73 per cent) said hybrid working made it easier to access preventative care, including regular screenings and check-ups. Roughly four in five (79 per cent) said shorter commutes helped reduce overall stress, while 78 per cent said hybrid working improved their work-life balance and reduced feelings of anxiety.

Employers also reported positive outcomes, the survey noted. Three-quarters (74 per cent) of senior leaders said flexible arrangements led to stronger productivity and employee engagement.

“Businesses are increasingly witnessing the benefits of hybrid working, not just in terms of productivity but also in employee well-being,” said Terri Pozniak, executive vice-president and country manager for Canada at IWG, in a press release. “By providing professional workspaces closer to home, we’re helping people address the challenges and loneliness of working from home while also freeing them from the grind of long and expensive daily commutes. Working from a variety of locations including a local office, home and head office gives employees the flexibility they need to support both their physical and mental health.”

Read: Hybrid work boosting confidence, productivity and cost savings for Canadian employers: survey