What is your company doing for your employees’ Mental Health?
For companies that do not yet prioritize the health and well-being of their employees, it is time to pay attention. It is no longer news that people of all ages are manifesting emotional disorders—something that became even more evident after the pandemic. However, we now have statistics to prove it, as revealed by a recent report in the Valor Econômico newspaper on June 3, 2024.
Now it’s the law! Promoting Mental Health and Well-being at work is mandatory.
Statistics on Antidepressant Use Among Brazilian Workers
According to statistics released by the newspaper, there has been an alarming increase in the use of antidepressants among Brazilian workers. The research compared the first quarter of 2023 with the same period in 2024, revealing that antidepressant use among Brazilian workers jumped by 12%.
The data also reveals that the most affected group consists of employees aged 39 to 48, with the highest adherence in the 39-43 age group (19.8%), followed by the 44-48 age group (16.5%).
The survey, which analyzed medication purchases by 196,677 employees across 250 companies, also showed that the majority of these workers are men (51%) and that 17% hold leadership positions. Finally, 29% of respondents do nothing to care for their mental health, and women are twice as likely to schedule therapy sessions than men. This points to a need for greater awareness and encouragement for all workers to care for their mental and physical health.
The Importance of a Healthy Work Environment
Beyond being concerning, these figures highlight the urgent need to raise awareness among employees about health and well-being, helping them manage feelings and emotions that may compromise happiness and productivity.
How do you know if a person is happy at work? Signs may be present when returning from vacation or even on a Sunday night, marked by discouragement or anxiety. If someone starts the day counting the hours until the end of the shift, something might be wrong. Considering we dedicate a large part of our time to work, it is fundamental that these feelings remain positive and motivating.
Health Must Be the Priority!
Often, we see people putting work above their health—skipping breaks, ignoring meals, or avoiding medical appointments to meet deadlines. Some even avoid asking for help when sick. This sacrifice can have negative long-term consequences. Therefore, awareness among both employees and LEADERSHIP is FUNDAMENTAL!
How to Build a Healthy Work Environment?
A healthy workplace should be a space where employees feel valued, safe, and empowered. It must promote a work-life balance, encouraging collaboration, mutual respect, and support. This includes providing ergonomic conditions, development opportunities, open communication, and leadership that inspires trust.
Your Company Needs to Invest in Training
In this scenario, it is more necessary than ever for companies to invest in training covering Non-Violent Communication (NVC), Mental Health, Harassment Prevention, and related topics.
TothBe offers these and other training programs essential for creating a culture of care. They help employees manage anxiety and discouragement, building defense mechanisms to reframe frustrations. Furthermore, these trainings help companies comply with Law 14,831/24, which requires concrete actions to promote workers’ mental health.
Talk to TothBe and promote a healthier, more productive work environment! contato@tothbe.com.br
