Anxiety and Depression in the Workplace

VI Conference on Psychosociology

In the frenetic pace of today’s work dynamics, anxiety and depression have emerged as a latent challenge affecting workers in all sectors. Once taboo topics, these disorders are now recognized as mental health problems that significantly impact the workplace.

On October 20, the 6th Osarten Psychosociology Conference was held at Otalora (Mondragon Center for Management and Cooperative Development). The purpose of this event was to promote understanding and awareness of anxiety disorders and depression, as well as to raise awareness of their impact on companies and explore approaches from organizational management.

During the day, several experts shared their knowledge. The opening session was given by Zigor Artamendi (General Director of Osarten) and Iñigo Calcedo (Organizational Psychologist and Osarten Occupational Risk Prevention Technician). Juan Medrano Albéniz (Osakidetza Psychiatrist) gave a talk on anxiety and depression, dealing with clinical aspects, symptomatology and prevalence. Cristina Iruretagoyena (Director of the Osarten Medical Service) focused on detection, available indicators and current and future challenges. Josune Galán (Head of Disability at Lagun Aro) delved into the impact on absenteeism and the challenges in the management of this pathology. In addition, Ramón San Sebastián (Occupational Physician at Maier S.Coop) and Nieves Barahona (Director of People Management at Krean Group) shared experiences and new practices. Nerea Garmendia (People Development Consultant at LKS-NEXT) dealt with the topic of personalized emotional support in work environments. And finally, Narciso Mazas (Prevention Technician and Ergonomics Specialist), concluded the day dealing with preventive aspects.

According to recent research, one in five individuals will experience an anxiety disorder or depression at some point in their lives, and many of them will be facing these challenges in the work environment, so it is crucial to raise awareness and offer support to deal with this issue. Establishing channels of communication, such as wellness programs, access to mental health services and a work environment that encourages work-life balance will be essential during this process.