Mexico Ranks Among Top 3 for Highest Annual Working Hours
Mexico remains one of the countries with the most annual working hours, a reality directly linked to an increase in physical and mental health issues. Hugo Palafox, Vice President of Science at Immunotec, explains the problem and offers five recommendations to find balance.
The Problem of Excessive Working Hours
According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Mexico is in the top 3 for the highest annual working hours per person, averaging around 2,200 hours—almost 500 more than the OECD average. This excessive workload, often fueled by the “culture of effort” stigma, contributes to a vicious cycle of exhaustion, negatively impacting both the physical and mental health of workers and their ability to balance work and personal life.
Who is Hugo Palafox and Why is He Relevant?
Hugo Palafox, Vice President of Science at Immunotec—a nutritional supplement company—emphasizes that work-related stress, caused by tight deadlines, meetings, and constant workload, directly affects people’s physical and mental well-being. He also mentions that this issue can lead to insufficient rest, gastrointestinal problems, irritability, and a weakened immune system.
Five Recommendations to Combat Work-Related Stress
Palafox stresses that addressing stress requires an overall approach and proposes five practices to incorporate into daily life to counteract its negative effects:
- Breathing exercises: Beyond clearing the mind, controlled and conscious breathing relaxes the nervous system, enhances focus, and reduces anxiety levels.
- Implementing adaptogens: The use of adaptogens, like Rhodiola rosea, has gained popularity. These natural extracts can help the body cope with tension and promote overall balance. An example is Knutric+, a supplement combining 12 plant and mineral extracts, including iodine and magnesium, to support nervous system function.
- Engaging in physical activity: Regular exercise not only strengthens the body but also releases endorphins, improving mood. A 30-minute walk, jumping rope, or swimming can positively impact mental and emotional health.
- Setting boundaries: Digital detachment is crucial. Establishing phone and device-free times reduces brain overstimulation and promotes mental recovery.
- Eating for tranquility: Diet directly influences stress levels. Overconsumption of ultra-processed foods, alcohol, caffeine, or sugar can disrupt mood and digestive system. Opt for nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and fish.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the problem? Mexico ranks among the top 3 countries with the highest annual working hours, linked to increased physical and mental health issues.
- Who is Hugo Palafox? Hugo Palafox is the Vice President of Science at Immunotec, a nutritional supplement company. He highlights the negative impact of work-related stress on people’s well-being.
- What are the five recommendations?
- Breathing exercises for relaxation and focus reduction
- Implementing adaptogens to help the body cope with tension
- Engaging in regular physical activity for mood improvement
- Setting boundaries to reduce digital overstimulation
- Eating nutrient-rich foods for better stress management
