In a concerning outlook for occupational well-being in Spain, work absences due to emotional disorders have seen a staggering 490% increase between 2018 and 2024, according to data from the National Institute of Safety and Health at Work (INSST). This alarming rise highlights the urgent need to address mental health in the workplace, where severe stress has grown by 230% and anxiety disorders by 120%. Depression has become the leading cause of long-term work disability, averaging 168 days per absence.
On the occasion of the recent World Mental Health Day, the importance of recognizing that behind these cold numbers are people facing real difficulties has been emphasized. Mental health should not be interpreted as a lack of professional commitment; on the contrary, the implementation of appropriate policies that provide necessary support to employees is required.
To tackle this issue, Coverflex, a flexible remuneration platform, along with Therapyside, a startup dedicated to offering online psychology services, have released an eBook titled “From KPIs to people: why is mental health key?”. This practical and free resource is aimed at guiding Human Resources professionals in formulating policies that promote employee well-being.
Julia Abarca, Country Manager of Coverflex in Spain, has explained that the purpose of the eBook is to bring the reality of mental health closer to companies, facilitating the implementation of policies that truly benefit employees. It presents five key fundamentals for designing benefits strategies related to mental health.
The first key is to talk without fear. Coverflex emphasizes that creating a space for conversation about mental health does not mean turning the work environment into a group therapy session, but rather acknowledging the emotional impact that work can have. Normalizing this type of dialogue can transform organizational culture.
The second key focuses on offering real flexibility, an aspect that many companies have yet to effectively implement. Allowing employees to organize their day autonomously not only improves their personal well-being but also enhances their performance.
The third point highlights the importance of providing useful benefits. Compensation plans should address real needs, including access to psychological therapy and personal development programs, as well as days off for self-care.
The fourth key emphasizes the importance of having trained managers who can identify signs of emotional problems in their teams. Training in skills such as active listening and empathy is essential for leaders to effectively manage the well-being of their staff.
Finally, the eBook concludes that clear and accessible policies are needed to address mental health in the workplace. These policies should be understandable and allow for the measurement of results to ensure their effectiveness.
In addition to the eBook launch, Coverflex and Therapyside have formalized a collaboration agreement to integrate the startup’s services into their benefits ecosystem. This alliance reinforces the commitment of both organizations to emotional well-being, facilitating secure and affordable access to quality psychological therapy for employees and companies.
Source: MiMub in Spanish