Mental health has evolved from a secondary issue in companies to one of the top concerns within corporate strategies in Latin America. The rise in emotional burnout, anxiety, and workplace stress is leading organizations to rethink their benefits and wellness programs to address a reality that is already directly impacting productivity and talent retention.

This was revealed in the latest WTW Insurance Brokers Benefits Trends Survey, in which 62% of employers in Latin America identified mental health as the priority area they wish to strengthen over the next three years.

The research indicates that this phenomenon is closely linked to an increase in the emotional challenges faced by workers. Data from the latest WTW Global Benefits Attitudes Survey show that about one-third of employees worldwide exhibit signs of anxiety and depression.

The impact is already beginning to be felt within organizations. According to the report, mental health issues are linked to lower levels of engagement, increased absenteeism, workplace burnout, and higher medical costs for companies.

“Companies are realizing that mental health is no longer an exclusively personal issue. Today, it directly influences business sustainability, productivity, and talent retention,” said Wendy Álvarez, Corporate Benefits Manager at WTW Corredores de Seguros.

The study also shows that organizations are broadening their view of corporate well-being. Along with mental health, companies are also prioritizing financial well-being, health benefits, and comprehensive support for their employees.

At the same time, companies are seeking to ensure that employees make better use of the available benefits. Forty-nine percent of employers in Latin America plan to strengthen guidance, communication, and support tools to help employees understand and use their wellness programs more effectively.

The research also reflects a growing tension between employee expectations and corporate decisions. While approximately two-thirds of employees in Latin America want more flexibility and remote work, some organizations are pushing for a stronger return to in-person work.

For WTW, this scenario forces companies to rethink not only their benefits but also the way they build their labor relations and their value proposition as employers.

“Employees expect more human, approachable, and personalized support. Companies that are better able to listen to their people and respond to their emotional needs will be better positioned to build committed and resilient teams,” added Álvarez.

The survey, conducted in more than 100 countries, included 1,025 companies in Latin America representing nearly 4.9 million workers.

About WTW

At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven analytical solutions in the areas of people, risk, and capital. Leveraging the global perspective and local expertise of our professionals in over 140 countries and markets, we help you shape your strategy, improve your organizational resilience, motivate your staff, and maximize your performance.

WTW Corredores de Seguros has a team of advisors who can be contacted via email [email protected]

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