Achievements and challenges in psychosocial and mental health management in work environments: colombian experience

Abstract

Since 1984, Colombia has ventured into the task of considering psychosocial factors within the framework of occupational health and safety management, thanks to the collaborative efforts between government, academia, and the productive sector. This collaboration aims at creating a regulatory framework focused on promoting mental health and preventing work-related mental disorders. The regulatory developments have been based on the understanding of the national reality provided by national surveys on safety, health and working conditions conducted between 2007 and 2021. These surveys have served as a foundation for incorporating specific actions into the national health and safety at work plans. In addition to diagnostic work and the formulation of public policies, the country has made progress in developing technical tools for psychosocial assessment and intervention. However, there are still even more significant challenges when it comes to promoting the wellbeing of the vast majority of informal and independent workers. Therefore, setting up comprehensive actions in collaboration with government sectors that define public policies and with the general population in order to address this issue is a must. The article highlights the achievements and challenges faced by Colombia in the field of psychosocial management in the workplace and for self-employed individuals. It also offers some insights that describe the journey undertaken, aiming to share experiences with other countries and professionals who are moving in similar directions.