Stress, Sleep, and Exercise Habits Among Extension Employees During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

We compared perceived stress among 804 Extension employees during the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic and again six months later. Work expectations, sleep and exercise habits were assessed. More than 46% of those responding believe work expectations are “much” or “moderately more” since the pandemic began. Nearly 60% report moderate levels of stress and 54% were sleeping less. Of those who were physically active (n=677) before the pandemic, 39% were exercising less. Because stress, sleep, and physical activity affect health, supervisors should recognize the impact the pandemic has on employees, and encourage the use of available resources to promote wellness and work/life balance.