Mental health at work is a crucial topic that often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves. However, it is essential for employee well-being and company productivity.
In September, with the Yellow September campaign aimed at raising awareness about suicide and mental health, it’s an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into this discussion.
Creating an environment where employees feel safe, valued, and able to handle daily stress is essential.
Using this month to promote support and awareness initiatives can make all the difference in employees’ lives and in the company’s culture.
“The mental health of Brazilian workers is alarming, especially in the post-COVID-19 period. Recent data shows that Brazil holds a worrying position in global rankings for mental disorders, which directly impacts employee productivity and quality of life,” emphasises Chirles de Oliveira, mentor and speaker in the Human Resources sector and CEO of Virada da Felicidade.
According to the study “Mental Health and Work in Brazil,” conducted by the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) over the past three years, 47% of Brazilian workers reported a decline in mental health during the pandemic. Furthermore, a 2021 study by the International Stress Management Association (ISMA-BR) revealed that 80% of Brazilians in the workforce suffer from some level of stress, with 40% displaying symptoms of burnout.
Consequences for Companies
In response to the mental health crisis, the Brazilian federal government implemented Law 14.831 of 2024, creating the Mental Health Promoter Company Certificate. This certification is granted to companies that adopt criteria to promote employee mental health and well-being. To obtain certification, companies must implement mental health programmes, offer access to psychological and psychiatric support, run awareness campaigns, train leadership, combat discrimination and harassment, promote a safe and healthy work environment, encourage work-life balance, and ensure transparency in their actions. The law, originating from PL 4.358/2023, was approved by the Senate on 28 February and published in the Official Gazette on 28 March 2024.
Chirles’ list can assist teams in improving corporate health. Check it out:
1. Support and Benefits:
Implementing well-being programmes, such as mindfulness sessions, physical activities, and mental health workshops.
2. Flexibility and Autonomy:
Offering flexible working hours and the option of remote work can help reduce stress and improve employees’ quality of life. Studies show that flexibility in work is directly related to increased satisfaction and productivity.
3. Psychological Support:
Providing psychological support services, such as therapy and counselling, is crucial. Companies can offer these services internally or through partnerships with specialised clinics.
4. Leadership Training:
Leaders and managers should be trained to recognise signs of mental health disorders and know how to act. An empathetic and well-informed leadership can make a significant difference in employees’ lives.
5. Encouraging Self-Care:
Promoting a culture of self-care is essential. Encouraging employees to engage in activities that promote well-being, such as hobbies, physical exercise, and leisure time, can help prevent mental disorders.
6. Open Communication:
Fostering a culture of open communication, where employees feel comfortable discussing their difficulties and seeking help, is fundamental. This can be achieved through internal communication channels and support groups.
“The mental health crisis in Brazil is a warning that cannot be ignored. With concrete actions and a genuine commitment to well-being, it’s possible to reverse this situation and build a healthier and happier future for all,” concludes the mentor.
