36% of Mexicans Struggle With Mental Health

The fourth iteration of AXA’s Mind Health Report, conducted in collaboration with IPSOS, sheds light on the alarming prevalence of mental health conditions and their profound impact, particularly among the working population. The report emphasizes the critical importance of employers making concerted efforts to prioritize mental health.

Surveying 16,000 respondents across 16 countries spanning Europe, Asia, and the Americas, the study delves into the intricate relationship between work environments and mental well-being. According to the report, one-third of the global population is currently grappling with a mental health condition, highlighting the urgent need for proactive interventions. Within this demographic group, three in four individuals are contending with multiple mental health conditions due to their work environments, with a 70% expressing disengagement with their jobs.

This issue is particularly pronounced among younger demographics, with 38% of young workers reporting sick leave due to mental health issues. Moreover, a significant 62% of individuals aged between 18 and 44 emphasize the importance of mental health support in their decision to remain in their current employment.

In Mexico, 36% of respondents admitted they were struggling with one mental health condition, according to AXA México. According to Edilberto Pe?a de León, Director General, CISNE, depression now impacts 20% of the Mexican population, a significant increase from the pre-pandemic rate of 9.1%. Furthermore, anxiety has emerged as the predominant disorder, with its prevalence skyrocketing from 14.5% before the pandemic to over 40% in recent studies.

The repercussions of this ongoing mental health crisis extend far beyond individual well-being, holding significant economic ramifications. The report estimates the cost of mental health issues in the workplace at a staggering $2.7 trillion, averaging 4.4% of GDP across the surveyed countries and territories. Such substantial losses underscore the imperative for organizations to prioritize mental health initiatives as part of their corporate responsibility.?

“The physical, mental, emotional, financial, and social health of employees not only affects their individual performance but also impacts overall productivity and organizational culture,” wrote Joseph Zumaeta, Country Manager, Pandapé for MBN.

On the other hand, the report also highlights ways to tackle this issue. More than half of respondents advocate for company-driven mental health initiatives and benefits, such as mental health first aid courses, as instrumental in fostering a supportive work environment.?