When is it time to seek psychological support at work?

      Knowing the right time to seek psychological support at work can be a major challenge. In an increasingly demanding world, where pressure for productivity and results intensifies, many people ignore the signs of emotional and mental exhaustion. Leaders, managers, and employees need to recognize that seeking psychological help is not a sign of weakness but an act of intelligence and self-care. Recent studies show that companies that invest in their employees' emotional well-being achieve better results in terms of engagement, creativity, and talent retention. The MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) model, developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, highlights the importance of working on mentality, practice, and expression to achieve a healthy balance between professional and personal life.

The first signs that something is wrong can be subtle. Frequent insomnia, irritability, lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating, and persistent headaches are symptoms that may indicate chronic stress. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), burnout is already considered an occupational syndrome, affecting millions of workers worldwide. When these issues are not addressed, they can develop into more serious problems, such as anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. Therefore, it is essential to recognize these signs and act before the condition worsens. The ThM (Theater Movement) method, also created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, emphasizes the use of theatrical techniques to unlock repressed emotions, promoting greater self-awareness and emotional development in the workplace.

Leadership plays a fundamental role in creating a psychologically safe environment. Companies that encourage open dialogue about mental health and provide professional support to their employees build healthier and more productive teams. A study by the Harvard Business Review revealed that leaders who demonstrate empathy and promote a culture of support significantly reduce turnover and absenteeism. Small gestures, such as encouraging regular breaks, offering moments of active listening, and providing access to occupational therapies, make all the difference in employees' lives. When a manager understands that an overwhelmed employee is not a sign of efficiency but of risk, they contribute to a more sustainable environment.

Psychological support at work should not be seen only as a resource for times of crisis. It can be a differentiator in enhancing personal and professional growth. Professionals who seek psychological counseling not only manage stress better but also develop essential socio-emotional skills such as resilience, assertive communication, and emotional intelligence. These skills are increasingly valued in the job market because they promote a collaborative and innovative environment. The MAT and ThM methodologies are excellent tools for this development, as they integrate techniques of mental reprogramming, practical action, and emotional expression.

An inspiring case is that of great leaders who have transformed their careers by recognizing the importance of psychological support. Steve Jobs, for example, was known for seeking methods of self-awareness and emotional development to improve his creativity and decision-making. In Brazil, renowned entrepreneurs are beginning to adopt practices such as mindfulness, emotional coaching, and occupational therapy as essential parts of organizational culture. When a leader invests in their mental health, they directly influence the entire team, promoting a culture of well-being and high performance.

Another important aspect is demystifying psychological support. Many people still carry the stigma that seeking help is something reserved for those in crisis. However, studies from Stanford University indicate that employees who undergo regular therapy show greater emotional balance and innovative capacity. Companies in Silicon Valley, such as Google and Facebook, have already incorporated this mentality, offering continuous psychological support to their employees. This model has proven highly effective in talent retention and building motivated and resilient teams.

Prevention is always the best strategy. Instead of waiting for the problem to worsen, it is essential that both leaders and workers pay attention to their well-being and that of their colleagues. Creating listening spaces, implementing psychological support programs, and encouraging self-care practices are essential measures for a healthy organizational environment. In the MAT method, a positive mindset is the foundation for any change, and structured action allows this change to be concretely applied in daily corporate life.

Emotional intelligence is a determining factor for professional success. People who know how to manage their emotions and deal with challenges in a balanced way are more productive and effective. Psychological support at work helps strengthen this emotional intelligence, aiding professionals in developing a growth mindset. As emphasized by the MAT and ThM methodologies, theater and practical action are powerful tools for unlocking potential and overcoming emotional barriers.

By recognizing the importance of psychological support at work, we are taking an essential step toward a more humane and efficient corporate future. Investing in mental well-being is not just a health issue but also an organizational strategy. Companies that value their employees' emotional health reap tangible benefits, such as higher productivity, lower turnover, and a more harmonious environment.

If there is one fundamental lesson about when to seek psychological support at work, it is that this moment does not have to be left until everything is out of control. Self-awareness and the pursuit of balance should be continuous. Mental health is a fundamental pillar of professional and personal success, and the sooner we become aware of this, the better the results will be. The question, therefore, should not be "when," but "how can we make psychological support a natural part of our professional lives?"

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