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The Hidden Costs of Freelancing: Physical, Mental, and Social Challenges Among Designers in Bangladesh

March 11, 2025

A new study published in the Userhub Journal highlights the significant health challenges faced by freelance designers in Bangladesh. While freelancing offers autonomy and flexibility, it also exposes workers to severe physical, mental, and social health risks.

Researchers surveyed 55 freelance designers and conducted interviews with 20 individuals, including freelancers, community leaders, and healthcare professionals. The findings reveal a range of health concerns that challenge the idealized image of freelancing.

Physical Health Challenges

Freelancers reported high levels of physical strain due to long working hours, lack of ergonomic workspaces, and continuous digital engagement. Among the most common issues:

Fatigue (55%) was the most frequently reported complaint, linked to irregular work schedules and insufficient rest.
Back pain (45%) and eye strain (40%) were common, largely due to prolonged screen exposure and poor posture.
Sleep disturbances and irregular eating habits were also prevalent, as many freelancers worked late into the night to meet client deadlines.

The absence of employer-provided healthcare exacerbates these issues, making it difficult for freelancers to seek regular medical care.

Mental Health and Financial Stress

The study highlights a significant burden of psychological distress among freelance designers. Financial insecurity emerged as a major stressor, with 40% of respondents citing irregular income as a primary concern. The unpredictability of freelancing work, coupled with the pressure to maintain client relationships, contributed to anxiety and burnout.

60% of freelancers reported experiencing stress and anxiety, primarily due to inconsistent workloads, payment delays, and client demands.
Many described emotional exhaustion, with some stating they felt unable to take breaks or set boundaries for their work.
Women freelancers faced additional challenges, balancing work with household responsibilities, leading to heightened stress levels.

Despite the perception of freelancing as flexible, the study found that only 20% of respondents had significant control over their schedules. Many reported feeling pressured to be available at all hours, with some experiencing disrupted sleep and prolonged periods of work without rest.

Social Isolation and Lack of Professional Recognition

Freelancing, particularly in Bangladesh, comes with social challenges beyond the immediate health risks. 50% of respondents reported feeling socially isolated, as irregular work hours limited their ability to maintain social connections. Unlike traditional office workers, freelancers lack structured interactions with colleagues, leading to feelings of loneliness.

Additionally, freelancing remains undervalued in many communities. Several participants noted that family and peers often did not recognize their work as legitimate employment. This social stigma further contributed to emotional distress, making it harder for freelancers to establish a sense of professional identity.

Systemic Challenges and the Need for Support

The study highlights a broader structural issue: freelancers in Bangladesh operate without formal protections, making them vulnerable to both financial instability and health risks. Many reported difficulties in accessing affordable healthcare, and there is currently no regulatory framework to ensure fair treatment in client-freelancer relationships.

The researchers suggest that systemic interventions—such as affordable healthcare options, professional networks, and legal recognition of freelancing—could help mitigate these challenges. Without such support, freelancers may continue to face significant health risks, despite the growing importance of their contributions to the digital economy.

The study provides critical insights into the less-explored health consequences of freelancing, emphasizing the need for both individual and policy-level responses to ensure sustainable working conditions for freelancers.

Reference:

Bin Ahsan, W., Bashar, A., Sarker, A., Tohin, T. A., & Sikder, A. (2025). Health Impacts of Freelancing: A Study on Designers in Bangladesh. Userhub. https://doi.org/10.58947/journal.qytd56