A work environment that neglects emotional well -being can become a real risk factor for the Health of those involved.
By magazine Summa
In the current work environment, mental well -being has become a crucial factor for the performance and satisfaction of employees. Five years after the pandemic that completely changed the formats and the way of working, various studies in Latin America have evidenced how mental health directly influences productivity and work environment.
A study by SAPIEN LABS, which analyzed the experiences of more than 54 thousand employees in 65 countries, including several in Latin America, found that factors such as excessive workload, lack of control over tasks and labor insecurity are decisive in the mental well -being of workers. In addition, the World Health Organization estimates that 12 billion days of work are lost every year due to depression and anxiety, which represents a cost of US $ 1 billion in loss of productivity.
But why is it important that the work environment promotes the mental well -being of workers? Mental health directly influences productivity, creativity, decision making and interpersonal relationships within the organization. When employees feel emotionally balanced and supported, they are more likely to commit to their work, effectively collaborate and remain in the company in the long term.
In addition, an environment that favors mental well -being helps reduce absenteeism, exhaustion (burnout) and personnel rotation, which positively impacts both the work environment and the results of the business. Several studies in Latin America have shown that companies that Take care of the emotional health of their teams improve their general performance and strengthen their reputation as responsible employers.
Newsweek magazine published its most recent list “Best companies in the United States for Mental Welfare 2025” that celebrates organizations that lead with the example, promoting healthy work environments and promoting a culture of support and emotional balance. Among the outstanding companies this year is Acer, who received the maximum five -star rating, a reflection of their continuous commitment to create work spaces where mental health is a tangible priority.
Other prestigious publications such as Forbes and Fortune have their own rankings of the best companies to work. In Latin America, MERCO (corporate reputation business monitor) evaluates business reputation in several dimensions, including treatment of human talent and the internal environment.
-The Great Place To Work organization (GPW) grants the most recognized certification worldwide in terms of climate and organizational culture. This NGO publishes annual rankings such as “the best places to work” at a global, regional and country level, based on employee surveys and internal policies analysis of companies.
Latent risk, eight hours a day
A work environment that neglects emotional well -being can become a real risk factor for the health of those involved. The eight regular working hours in a stressful environment can accumulate in the form of not only mental diseases. Anxiety and depression, sleep disorders, cardiovascular diseases and even weakening of the immune system may be among the consequences.
“The constant concern with the responsibilities of work often directs us to have erratic food habits no longer exercise, resulting in problems of obesity, high pressure and high levels of cholesterol,” says the American Association of Psychology on its website.
Fortunately there are many strategies that can be implemented to help manage stress at work.
Five strategies to take care of your mental well -being in the office
- Establish clear limits between work and personal life: Define specific schedules for your work and personal activities. Avoid checking emails or attending calls outside work schedule to maintain a healthy balance.
- Promote open communication: Talk to your superiors and colleagues about your needs and concerns. Effective communication can prevent misunderstandings and reduce stress.
- Take regular breaks: Incorporates short pauses during your workday to rest the mind and body. These breaks can improve concentration and reduce fatigue.
- Participate in well -being activities: Take advantage of the well -being programs your company offers, such as meditation sessions, stress management workshops or physical activities.
- Find professional support if necessary: If you feel that stress or anxiety affect your work performance, consider consulting a mental health professional. Many companies offer advice services or have agreements with specialists.
Promoting mental well -being in the office not only benefits employees, but also improves productivity and work environment in general. It is responsibility of both organizations and individuals to create healthy and sustainable work environments.
