In an increasingly unpredictable and demanding world, the CATÓLICA-LISBON's Pact for Mental Health at the Workplace sends out a clear and urgent message: the psychological well-being of employees is no longer just an ethical concern; it is a strategic lever for long-term competitiveness and sustainability.
Organisations that place mental health at the heart of their strategy are reaping tangible benefits: increased productivity, consistent innovation, and talent that stays and thrives. Investing in mental wellbeing is no longer a “nice to have”; it is a competitive imperative.
Research makes this clear. Companies that actively invest in psychological health see a reduction in absenteeism and presenteeism (working while unwell), alongside a significant boost in engagement. Structured psychological support helps prevent burnout and preserves the vital energy of teams. For every dollar invested, the return can reach fourfold. In contrast, the cost of inaction is enormous: the WHO estimates global productivity losses of $1 trillion annually due to mental health issues. Turnover related to mental distress can cost an average of 20% of an employee’s annual salary, and according to the OECD, macroeconomic losses amount to 3–4% of GDP in developed countries.
It is within this context that the Roadmap for Mental Health at the Workplace was created — a practical, adaptable tool developed through the Pact's working groups, with contributions from: Auchan, Bound – Intelligent Health Capital, BP Portugal, Capgemini, Cofidis, Diaverum, EDP, Galp, Fidelidade, Fundação São João de Deus, Grupo BEL, Johnson & Johnson, Monliz, Multicare, Olympus, STEF Portugal, Pfizer, REN, ROUNDB, SPMS – Shared Services of the Ministry of Health, Transportes Metropolitanos de Lisboa, The Square, Vieira de Almeida and Workwell.
The Roadmap provides a structured framework for designing and implementing robust mental health programmes across all sectors and organisational sizes.
It begins with an organisational self-assessment, helping to identify strong practices and critical gaps. It positions organisational culture as a driving force for wellbeing, innovation, and cohesion. Mental health literacy and continuous training are key to empowering teams and leaders to recognise warning signs, reduce stigma, and build a culture of genuine support.
Leadership is decisive. Conscious, empathetic, and well-prepared leaders create safer, more resilient, and more human environments. They set the tone by promoting a healthy balance between work and personal life, an example that echoes throughout the organisation.
Measurement is essential for progress. Tracking indicators such as absenteeism, turnover, burnout, employee satisfaction (ESI), and the ROI of interventions supports strategic decision-making. Validated tools like the COPSOQ support legal compliance while transforming data into meaningful insights.
Clear, empathetic, and consistent communication ties the entire process together. It reduces stigma, reinforces alignment, and strengthens internal commitment. Recognition, both formal and informal, is a powerful driver of motivation, belonging, and engagement.
The Pact for Mental Health at the Workplace exists to accelerate this agenda. It promotes an active community of practice, provides science- and experience-based resources, exclusive master classes (“Mental Health Pills”), a digital platform, and peer learning opportunities.
Next steps include expanding the community, engaging SMEs, and deepening cross-sector partnerships.
The time to act is now.
Join this transformative movement.
Because mental health matters — and demands visionary leadership.
Have a great and impactful week!
Liliana Dias
Managing Partner at Bound Health
Member of the Board of Directors of CATÓLICA-LISBON’s Pact for Mental Health at the Workplace