Psychosocial processes, mental and occupational health in a Brazilian federal education institution

Abstract Introduction: research on psychosocial factors or processes and their possible relations to occupational health in the contemporary labor world are necessary for intervening and minimizing social and psychological vulnerabilities in the workplace. Objective: to characterize psychosocial factors, protective and of risk for work-related mental health, as seen by managers and occupational health professionals from a Brazilian federal education institution. Methods: qualitative research based on psychodynamics. We collected data by focus groups and interpreted them using content thematic analysis. Results: the highlighted protective factors included environment and equipment; worker autonomy; participation in decision-making; interpersonal relationships; supportive institutional culture; and social appreciation. Work intensification and overload; vagueness of competencies and responsibilities; career insecurity; and work-family balance were highlighted as risk factors. Conclusion: working conditions and worker’s individual aspects emerged as both protective and risk factors for worker’s mental health and can provide guidelines for developing psychosocial risk management programs.