A renewed look at mental health in the workplace
The Spanish Government, led by the Minister of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, Elma Saiz, is committed to a significant update of the catalog of occupational diseases. This process will be carried out with special attention to the prevention of psychosocial risks and the consideration of pathologies related to mental health.
The importance of this effort lies in its collaborative approach, where social dialogue stands as a fundamental tool. The head of Social Security emphasizes that this dialogue will be key to finding effective solutions that benefit all labor sectors.
An inter-ministerial commitment
The renewal of the catalog of occupational diseases does not fall solely within the scope of Social Security, but involves several ministries, including Labor and Health. This initiative, led by Yolanda Díaz and Mónica García respectively, also has the collaboration of the National Commission for Safety and Health at Work, as well as other relevant entities.
It is established as a priority commitment for the current legislature, with a focus on understanding the influence of psychosocial factors on occupational mental health. In addition, indicators are being developed that will allow us to identify which work activities are most affected by these risks.
The challenge of mental health in the work environment
The figures reflect the urgency of this update, especially in a country where the consumption of anxiolytics and antidepressants has increased significantly in recent years. Senator Idurre Bideguren highlights that young people, women and people with precarious jobs are the most affected.
The Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated these situations, and it is essential to recognize that these diseases are not currently included in the catalog of occupational diseases. The absence of this inclusion leads to a lack of preventive measures by companies, which in turn affects their ability to adequately manage psychosocial risks.
The need for a scientific basis
Minister Saiz recognizes the importance of supporting this update with solid scientific evidence. She highlights the complexity of the European landscape, where the lack of a harmonized framework makes it difficult to compare data between countries. In this sense, Spain actively participates in initiatives such as the Eurostat pilot report to improve the transmission of information between the Member States of the European Union.
The commitment of the Spanish Government is clear: to move towards a comprehensive approach to mental health in the workplace, recognizing its impact on the productivity and well-being of workers.
Final note
It is important to remember that mental health challenges at work are a reality that must be addressed seriously. It is always advisable to consult with a health specialist if you have any concerns related to work well-being.
