Digital disconnection is more important than ever in an era marked by hyperconnection and technology. For this reason, Edenred, in collaboration with the Savia health platform, has carried out the Study of Workplace Health and Well-being in Spain. This is a report that provides a clear picture of the digital habits of Spanish workers, their impact on health and work-life balance.
The digital divide refers to right of individuals to disconnect from work tasks and communications outside working hours. It's not simply about switching off electronic devices, but about establishing clear boundaries to protect rest time, promote emotional well-being, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
This concept has become more relevant today, especially in remote working contexts, where the boundaries between professional and personal life have blurred. Digital detachment is a practice key to preserving productivity and quality of life in the long term.
The report highlights that the Community of Madrid is the region with the highest level of digital connection outside working hours, with .75% of workers continuing to answer calls or messages after their day. It is followed by Galicia (67,93 %), Valencian Community (67,38 %) and Catalonia (67.09 %), all with high digital load figures. On the other hand, the Basque Country (46,2 %) and Castile and León (41,4 %) lead the disconnection ranking.
The study also delves into generational differences. The professionals who find it most difficult to switch off are the younger ones: 71.4 % of Millennials (25-34 years) and 66.7 % of the Generation Z (18-24 years) continue to deal with labour communications outside working hours. In contrast, The percentages decrease among the older generations, with 60.9 % in the Generation X (45-54 years) and 61.9 % in the Baby Boomers younger (55-60 years old).
Adopting digital disconnection brings a series of advantages for both individuals and businesses:
Improving mental healthReducing constant exposure to devices decreases stress and anxiety.
Improved quality of personal relationshipsencourages direct interactions with loved ones outside the digital environment.
Increased productivityRest periods allow workers to return to their tasks with greater focus.
Burnout preventionDisconnecting helps you move away from burnout syndrome.
Promotes a balanced work cultureCompanies that promote disconnection improve the satisfaction and motivation of their teams.
La digital detox it is not just a necessity, but a key tool for looking after occupational health and building more sustainable organisational cultures. The Study of Occupational Well-being and Health in Spain, carried out by Edenred and Savia, highlights the importance of establishing boundaries to protect the emotional and physical well-being of workers. Now more than ever, governments, companies, and individuals must work together to ensure a balance that prioritises quality of life without compromising productivity.
