The number of temporary disability processes linked to mental health problems has doubled in Spain since 2016, rising from 280,000 to over 643,000 in 2024. Furthermore, the average duration of these leaves has increased from 45 to 116 days. This phenomenon, which a professor of Labor Law at the UV calls "work flight," indicates that the labor world "is expelling people or people are fleeing from it" due to overload and burnout syndrome.
“"It has increased in all sectors, across all age ranges, and even between the public and private sectors."
In his book La huida del trabajo: sobrecarga, salud mental y derechos fundamentales, the expert proposes a clear direction: legally regulate the workload, limiting it with a maximum. He argues that, historically, only working hours have been regulated, but now technology offers the opportunity to regulate task load. He emphasizes that precariousness is one of the main causes of burnout, and that it is not a generational issue, but rather one of material and economic conditions.
The economic crisis of 2011, lack of protection, and loss of purchasing power have contributed to this situation. Previously, employment guaranteed a quality salary and access to an autonomous life, but now, if it cannot be afforded, people "end up not tolerating that job." The expert also acknowledges a generational shift in the perception of mental health, which is now understood as linked to organizational, social, and economic causes, rather than personal weakness.
Technology, while it can intensify work, can also be a tool for solution. The expert suggests that digital watches can measure physical fatigue levels, and sensors can measure stress or visual fatigue. These tools could establish a clear limit on workload. He cites examples of logistics centers in Poland where the Labor Inspectorate has sanctioned companies for exceeding a maximum calorie intake during their employees' workday. For him, "now there is an opportunity to regulate this."
