Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
The “Mental Health and Work Conference” was held in Brussels. Through this high-level exchange, Belgium wants to influence the agenda of the next Commission and is pushing for the establishment of specific European regulations on the prevention of psychosocial risks at work. According to a statement issued by the current rotating Belgian presidency of the European Union, it also said, “Successive crises We have seen in recent years taking such a toll on the mental capacity of European workers that signs of a new mental health crisis are beginning to appear.
Nearly half of European workers experience stress at work, accounting for about half of all sick days.
44% say that stress at work has increased as a result of the Corona crisis.
Recent research has shown that a significant proportion of depression and cardiovascular disease can be attributed to exposure to psychosocial risk factors at work.
In this context, Belgium, in its capacity as President of the Council of the European Union, wants to take the lead in achieving specific European regulations to address mental health risks, following the example of existing comprehensive legislation on physical well-being and occupational health.
In July 2022, the European Parliament called for a global EU strategy. This needs to be taken forward by the next European Commission, according to Belgium.
At the end of January, over two days, the Minister of Economy and Labor, Pierre-Yves Dermanni, and the Minister of Health and Social Affairs, Frank Vandenbroucke, in cooperation with the Minister of the Self-Employed, David Clarenvall, and the Minister of Public Administration, Petra De Sutter, organized a two-day event in Brussels, bringing together mental health and labor experts, policy makers and social partners. .
Focus on prevention
The first day of the conference focused on preventing psychological and social risks, stress and exhaustion at work. Recent European research was discussed to identify issues and will be discussed by European social partners, as well as policy makers in attendance.
Across Europe, more and more workers are suffering from psychological problems. In order to better protect them, more attention to mental health at work is urgently needed. Binding rules on prevention are also important to create a level playing field for businesses everywhere in the EU.
The statement quoted Belgian Minister of Economy and Employment Pierre-Yves Dermany as saying, “The issue is gaining importance at the European level, which is reflected in the participation of no less than three European Union commissioners in the conference. In addition to Commissioner Nicolas Schmidt, who pledged his support for organizing the conference in the beginning.” Vice President Margaritis Schinas and Commissioner Stella Kyriakides were also present to contribute to the debate on the need for new European policies.
Start-Stay-Back to Work
The second day was dedicated to reintegration, including sessions on “Getting to work” (an inclusive labor market for people with mental disorders), “Staying in work” (secondary prevention from an EU perspective) and “Returning to work” ( good practices). Return to work from an EU perspective).
Anyone who is sick - or has been sick - for a long time has a very difficult time returning to work. Work is very important to feel satisfied, but also to feel useful. It's more than just making money.
“This certainly applies to people's mental health: for people who have dropped out of school due to mental health problems, looking for new opportunities in society can be crucial to their recovery,” said Frank Vandenbroucke, Belgian Minister of Social Affairs and Public Health. “Providing the right help, showing people the way.” And effectively guide them towards success. “Work is not just a matter of solidarity, it is above all health,” says Minister Frank Vandenbroucke.
Belgium is a pioneer
Belgium is in a good position to put this issue on the agenda at the European level. With the implementation of the Federal Mental Health Plan, the federal government has developed a series of concrete measures.
Public Administration Minister Petra De Sutter said: “Belgium is not losing sight of the well-being of its workers. We have introduced rules that take all aspects into account: from the suitability of the workplace to the psychosocial risks in the workplace. Our ambition is to translate that Belgian view of workers into guidance.” European. In this way, the Belgian model can guarantee the well-being of every European worker.”
De Sutter added that the federal government bears responsibility for the well-being of its employees.
The work-life balance has to be right; We provide psychological support and counselling. Managers are given sessions to discuss wellbeing with their employees etc.
Minister for the Self-Employed, David Clarenvall, said: “Fatigue and depression are the second leading cause of inability to work among the self-employed and are increasing due to crises that have a significant impact on entrepreneurs such as the war in Ukraine and the Corona crisis. It is important to raise their awareness so that they can protect their recovery.” better mental while responding to typical entrepreneurs' requirements."
In Belgium, we have developed initiatives to strengthen the mental well-being of freelancers, and I am pleased that during the conference we will look at how we can provide tailored support for freelancers to avoid risks and harmful situations.