Located in Barcarena, Pará, the alumina refinery received accolades for its mental health pillar, “PlenaMente,” part of its “Viver Bem” Program. This recognition was presented in the Private Companies category during the 13th Baldur Oscar Schubert Awards, held on April 25-26 at the 16th Congress on Absenteeism Management and Professional Rehabilitation.

The award, spearheaded by the Brazilian Center for Industrial Safety and Health (CBSSI), highlights outstanding practices and innovations in managing absenteeism, professional reintegration and rehabilitation, accessibility, social inclusion, and health promotion in the workplace. “PlenaMente was designed to foster a safe and healthy work environment, enabling people to thrive. With the global rise in work-related mental health issues, this initiative aims to drive a cultural shift at Hydro Alunorte, focusing on mental well-being both in personal and professional contexts,” says Dr. Lívia Souza, occupational physician at Hydro Alunorte.

Part of the broader “Viver Bem” Program initiated by Hydro, "PlenaMente" encourages employees to reconnect with their health, unlock their potential, and realign with their values and life purposes through a comprehensive suite of accessible support services. At the 16th Congress on Absenteeism Management and Professional Rehabilitation, Dr. Souza is set to elaborate on the initiative's strategies, launched in 2019, which include mental health prevention, nurturing compassionate leadership, identifying psychosocial risks, and providing high-quality treatment.

The accolade reflects the team's dedication to meeting the complex needs of the refinery's workforce, which numbers over five thousand. “We now see a notable increase in employee engagement with mental health discussions, signaling a significant cultural shift within the company. Additionally, there’s a growing demand for services and a broader understanding among employees about the importance of seeking help,” Dr. Souza adds with pride.