The Institute of Mental Health (MHI) at the Faculty of Health and Public Administration (EKK) of Semmelweis University organized a conference titled “Those Who Are Well Perform Well: Mental Health at Work.” The event brought together academic leaders, corporate executives, and mental health professionals to discuss the growing importance of workplace well-being.
In her opening speech, Dr. Beáta Pethesné Dávid, Dean of EKK, highlighted the increasing demand for mental health training programs. She noted that applications for the program in 2024 were six times oversubscribed. The dean emphasized the mediating role of universities—particularly Semmelweis University—in connecting society and the economy.
“As an employer of 14,000 people, our university sets an example by linking healthcare, education, and social services, while strengthening cooperation with both nonprofit and for-profit sectors,” she said. She added that one of the conference’s key objectives was to deepen ties with the business sector and draw greater attention to mental health in the workplace.
Dr. Béla Merkely, Rector of Semmelweis University, underlined that mental well-being is essential for both personal and professional success.
“We can connect, grow, collaborate, and remain productive only if we are at peace with ourselves. As the conference motto states, those who are well perform well,” he said. “Mental well-being is fundamental for productive and dedicated work. Every leader and employer should keep this in mind.”
The rector emphasized that the university’s strength lies not in its historic buildings but in the excellence and dedication of its staff. He added that Semmelweis strives to operate as a family-friendly institution that supports a healthy work-life balance for both employees and students.
Gábor Orbán, CEO of Gedeon Richter Plc. and Chairman of the Foundation for National Health Care and Medical Education (NEOA), also addressed the audience. He stressed that stable performance requires a safe and humane working environment.
“At Richter, we believe consistent performance can only be achieved when people feel calm and secure,” he said. Orbán highlighted the company’s regular internal mood surveys, direct communication practices, and zero-tolerance policy toward harassment and retaliation.
A roundtable discussion moderated by Ágnes Horváth brought together experts from academia and industry, including representatives from Rossmann Magyarország Ltd., Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), and Semmelweis University. Participants agreed that mental well-being is influenced by both private and professional environments, and that employers share responsibility in supporting employees facing personal challenges.
Examples of workplace support included self-awareness programs, one-on-one consultations, stress management initiatives, health services, and emergency financial assistance. Kornél Németh of Rossmann emphasized the importance of company-funded emergency aid and telephone mental health support services. Tibor Szpisják of HPE noted that a stress management program was introduced after surveys revealed that 65 percent of employees struggled with stress.
Kata Püski highlighted the university’s “Family Friendly University Program,” which supports employees at all life stages. She noted that healthcare workers—who make up about two-thirds of the university’s staff—are particularly vulnerable to stress and burnout.
Dr. Tímea Tésenyi from MHI stressed that sustainable performance means aiming to be “good enough” rather than constantly striving for perfection, which can lead to excessive pressure. Experts also emphasized the crucial role of leadership in shaping workplace culture and open communication.
Dr. György Purebl, Director of the Institute of Behavioral Sciences, presented research on circadian rhythms and mental health. He recommended practical strategies to mitigate the negative effects of shift work, including structured rest periods, limiting blue light exposure, managing caffeine intake, maintaining consistent wake-up times, seeking natural light, and regular exercise.
The conference also addressed burnout, digital addiction, and the use of artificial intelligence in therapy. Workshops allowed participants to explore best practices for promoting mental health in corporate settings.
The event reinforced Semmelweis University’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between academia and the business sector while promoting mental well-being as a foundation for sustainable performance.
Source: Semmelweis University
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