By Maria Mendez
22 Jul 2024, 11:37 AM EDT
I firmly believe in the power of one voice, and even more so in the impact of several voices united. This conviction has been the driving force behind the mission of Vacation is a Human Right, an organization born out of a deep desire to transform vacations into a fundamental human right.
On my first visit to Pope Francis in 2019, I promised him that I would dedicate all my efforts to making that vision a reality. I was deeply inspired by his wisdom and compassion, and from that day on, we have carried in our hearts the mission of ensuring that every person has the opportunity to rest and renew themselves, no matter their circumstances.
In my recent meeting with him, I was able to express my gratitude for his continued encouragement. It was a moment of deep reflection and joy, as today, thanks to that inspiration, we have touched the lives of thousands of people, providing them with much-needed respite and recovery.
Now, we face an even greater challenge: burnout prevention. Mental health and emotional well-being are essential pillars of a full and productive life, and it is our collective responsibility to address them with urgency and dedication. That is why, after a first event in the Dominican Republic, we will now celebrate the II Ibero-American Congress for the Prevention of Burnout —Well-being without Burnout—, on October 24, 25 and 26 in Madrid, Spain.
The event is more than a series of conferences and workshops; it is a call to action. We need individuals and companies to join this cause, lending their voice, resources and commitment. Together, we can create an environment where wellbeing is a priority, and where every individual has the tools necessary to manage stress and avoid burnout.
Burnout is a condition characterized by a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress at work. The World Health Organization recognized it as such in 2000. Its most common symptoms include extreme fatigue, insomnia, concentration difficulties, irritability, and a noticeable decrease in productivity and motivation.
By uniting in the prevention of burnout, we are building a future where well-being is not a luxury, but an accessible reality for all.
Maria Mendez is the president and founder of Vacation is a Human Right (VIAHR). https://viahr.org