MENTAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE: AN ANALYSIS OF THE EPIDEMIC CRISIS IN BRAZIL AND ITS LEGAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

This scientific article investigates the mental health crisis in the Brazilian workplace, characterized as an epidemic situation by experts and government agencies. Through analysis of official statistical data, labor jurisprudence and current legislation, it demonstrates the exponential growth of absences due to mental disorders, which increased 134% between 2022 and 2024, reaching 472 thousand cases. The research examines psychosocial risk factors, the update of Regulatory Standard NR-1 by MTE Ordinance No. 1,419/2024, the recognition of burnout as an occupational disease by ICD-11, and emblematic legal cases of moral and sexual harassment. The results highlight the urgency of public policies and organizational strategies for prevention and promotion of mental health, considering economic impacts estimated at R$ 468 billion annually and the 28% increase in lawsuits regarding moral harassment between 2023 and 2024. It concludes with the need for an integrated approach involving companies, the State and civil society in building healthy and dignified work environments.