Impacto del estrés laboral en la salud mental del cuerpo de bomberos municipal de Machala.

Abstract

Work-related stress is defined as a set of physical, psychological, and behavioral responses that arise when the demands of the work environment exceed the individual's ability to cope with them. This issue is particularly relevant in the case of firefighters, who are exposed to long working hours, direct and frequent contact with emergency situations and human suffering, as well as conditions that can lead to loneliness and family estrangement. These circumstances make this group particularly vulnerable to developing emotional disorders such as anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and burnout syndrome. This study, developed as a systematization of experiences, had as its main objective to identify the impact of work-related stress on members of the Machala Municipal Fire Department (Station 1), in order to contribute to the improvement of their mental health. A qualitative approach was adopted and, after an initial screening, a sample of 10 members was selected. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with these individuals, as well as two psychological instruments: the Psychosomatic Problems Questionnaire (CPP) and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), which allowed for the assessment of emotional distress, levels of work-related stress, and symptoms associated with burnout syndrome. The results obtained showed an increase in participants' emotional awareness, better identification of stress symptoms, and a greater willingness to implement coping strategies. It is concluded that group psychological support has a positive effect on the emotional well-being of firefighters, and that it is essential to maintain institutional spaces aimed at providing support, prevention, and strengthening mental health within this highrisk profession.