Staying Productive at Work, without Neglecting Mental Health

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Work is an important part of everyday life. Beyond providing income, decent work can build self-confidence, a sense of purpose and achievement, andStaying Productive at Work, Without Neglecting Mental Health opportunities to build social relationships. However, working conditions and the work environment can also affect a person’s mental health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in its fact sheet updated on September 15, 2026, decent work can support mental health by providing income, self-confidence, a sense of purpose, positive relationships, and a structured routine. On the other hand, a poor work environment can increase mental health risks.

WHO identifies several psychosocial risks in the workplace, including excessive workloads, high work pace, long or inflexible working hours, limited control over work, unsafe working conditions, lack of support from colleagues, and unclear roles. These risks can occur across various sectors and affect workers in different ways. Therefore, mental health in the workplace is not only related to an individual’s ability to cope with pressure, but also to the conditions of the environment in which they work.

Citing the Indonesian Ministry of Health, common mental health issues in the workplace include stress, anxiety, and depression. These conditions can be influenced by various factors, such as workload, the work environment, and interpersonal relationships in the workplace.

The Ministry of Health also emphasizes the importance of creating a positive and healthy work environment. Support for workers can include mental health policies, work-life balance, opportunities for professional development, and access to counseling services.

WHO also recommends that employers take steps to reduce psychosocial risks by improving working conditions and the work environment. These efforts may include more flexible work arrangements, preventing violence and harassment, and providing training for managers to recognize and respond to mental health concerns in the workplace.

Workers’ mental health therefore needs to be part of workplace considerations. A safe and healthy work environment can help create more supportive conditions for employees while maintaining sustainable work activities.

Maintaining mental health amid daily work routines requires attention from both workers and their work environment. Workload, relationships with colleagues, and organizational conditions are among the factors that need to be considered to ensure that professional activities continue in a healthy environment.