Empowering Gen Z Through Mental Health Awareness and Innovation Strategies

On March 25, 2025, P2SDM partnered with PT Panasonic Industrial Devices Batam to hold a seminar titled “Mental Health and Innovation: How Gen Z is Transforming the Workplace”. The session, led by psychologist Riko Jayasaputra, M.Psi. focused deeply on understanding mental health and the impact of Gen Z in today’s professional landscape.

Understanding Mental Health at Work
The session began by exploring the meaning of mental health in the workplace. Mental health was defined not only as the absence of psychological disorders but also the ability to actualize one’s potential, adapt to challenges, and form positive relationships. Participants were introduced to WHO’s criteria for mental health, such as the ability to learn from experience, positive thinking, and emotional resilience.

Challenges Faced by Gen Z
The seminar highlighted several mental health challenges commonly experienced by Gen Z employees. Many of them struggle with anxiety, stress, and even depression, often triggered by high expectations and fast-paced environments. The influence of social media also adds pressure to maintain a perfect image, which can lead to decreased self-esteem and social skill gaps. Additionally, Gen Z employees may encounter bullying or harassment, both in person and online, which further impacts their mental well-being. Some also face issues related to substance use and a lack of adequate support systems. This segment helped participants understand how these stressors can hinder productivity and innovation, emphasizing the need for targeted support in the workplace.

How Gen Z is Driving Innovation
The seminar also explored the significant role Gen Z plays in driving innovation within the workplace. As a generation known for being highly adaptable and tech-savvy, Gen Z employees bring fresh perspectives and a natural ease with digital tools. They are passionate about purpose-driven work, often seeking roles that align with their values and contribute to a greater good. With strong collaboration skills and entrepreneurial mindsets, they thrive in team environments and are eager to create new solutions. Their use of social media allows them to rapidly share ideas and inspire change. Moreover, they are deeply committed to sustainability and social impact. The seminar presented real examples of Gen Z-led innovations, including mental health apps, educational technology platforms, and environmentally focused waste management systems.

Strategies to Foster Mental Health and Innovation
The session concluded with a set of practical strategies that companies can adopt to create a more inclusive, mentally supportive, and innovation-driven work culture. These strategies included building flexible work environments that accommodate diverse needs, as well as offering continuous learning opportunities to encourage growth and adaptability. The importance of open communication and fairness in policy implementation was emphasized, alongside efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. Participants were also encouraged to leverage technology and develop supportive policies that promote well-being. Key takeaways included the value of building collaborative and empathetic teams, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and utilizing data-driven approaches to monitor and improve mental wellness in the workplace.

The seminar offered more than just knowledge, it served as a call to action for organizations to recognize the mental health needs of Gen Z while harnessing their creative potential. With the right strategies, workplaces can become both healthier and more innovative.

P.s. Located at Komplek Ruko Taman Niaga Blok D No. 2-3 Sukajadi, Kota Batam, we are ready to partner with you to achieve your organizational goals. Contact us at +62 811 7009 029 to learn more about our services.