Understanding Work-Related Stress in Mexico
Maria del Rosario Silva Arciniega, a professor at the National School of Social Work (ENTS) at UNAM, has highlighted that work-related stress is becoming increasingly prevalent among Mexican workers. This issue, exacerbated by factors such as an overwhelming workload, inadequate working conditions, interpersonal conflicts, job insecurity, and unclear roles, is further intensified by the lack of empathy from superiors who often adopt controlling and exclusive attitudes.
The Critically Vulnerable State of Labor Health in Mexico
In a context where more than half of Mexico’s economically active population works in informality, labor health faces critical conditions. Job insecurity and lengthy commutes in bustling cities like Mexico’s capital contribute to daily tension.
Consequences of Work-Related Stress
Work-related stress manifests in two primary areas: physical and emotional. Physically, it results in conditions like gastritis, colitis, laryngitis, workplace accidents, or frequent absences due to illness. Emotionally, it leads to mood alterations, psychosomatic disorders, or personality issues affecting mental well-being.
In Mexico, these manifestations have become commonplace. People endure constant discomforts such as stomach aches, headaches, dizziness, and emotional imbalances that hinder restful sleep.
Despite Mexico’s advanced labor legislation, including Article 123 of the Constitution, many guarantees remain unfulfilled or unknown. These include rights to rest, equal pay, maternity protection, and social security.
The lack of awareness about human rights and the normalization of exploitation in various labor sectors reinforce a model centered on individuality and abuse. An example is the precarious conditions under which many people providing domestic services work without access to basic rights like social security.
Reversing Work-Related Stress
Silva Arciniega proposes that work-related stress can be reversed by fostering a healthy and motivating environment. A happy worker requires stable, fulfilling employment aligned with their values, a fair salary, and harmonious relationships with colleagues.
“Work should not be perceived as a burden,” she emphasizes. Positive working conditions lead to increased satisfaction, motivation, creativity, and a healthy professional connection.
She also stresses the importance of preserving self-esteem, personal concept, and individual identity within the work environment.
Recommendations and Reflections Against Work-Related Stress
- Enjoy a pleasant and stable job that aligns with the worker’s aspirations and values.
- Receive a fair salary and maintain positive relationships with coworkers.
- Experience positive working and personal conditions that motivate, stimulate creativity, and enhance overall well-being.
- Avoid viewing work as a burden or punishment, instead promoting a positive perception of employment.
- Strengthen self-esteem, personal concept, and individual identity, always remembering one’s inherent human worth.
- Refuse exclusive or abusive supervision from managers, even when adhering to certain labor guidelines.
- Know and exercise labor rights, as established in Article 123 of the Mexican Constitution, including dignified work, fair wages, social security, rest rights, and more.
