An introductory workshop on mental health at work brought together 37 representatives from the 21 Employers' Confederation of Thailand (ECOT) member enterprises in Bangkok on 5 August 2026 to explore approaches to preventing psychosocial risks and promoting mental health at work.
Mental health has a significant impact on society and the world of work and is increasingly recognized as an important occupational safety and health (OSH) element. Globally, more than 12 billion working days are lost every year due to depression and anxiety. Poor mental health can adversely affect physical health, increase the risk of occupational accidents, reduce workers' productivity, and negatively affect overall business performance.
The workshop responded to growing interest in this emerging topic and needs of preventive actions at the workplace level.
In her opening remarks, Xiaoyan Qian, Director of the ILO Decent Work Technical Support Team for East and South-East Asia and the Pacific and Country Office for Thailand, Cambodia and Lao People's Democratic Republic, emphasized that "A safe and healthy working environment is not only a fundamental principle and right at work but also an essential element for fostering sustainable and inclusive economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all."
She further highlighted that addressing mental health at work is a highly relevant and timely , in line with national, regional and global initiatives, such as Thailand's annual Mind Month campaign in May and the theme of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2026, "Healthy Psychosocial Working Environments."
"Mental health at work remains a critical challenge that inevitably impacts both workers and organizational performance," said Dr Sopon Pornchokchai, Vice President of ECOT. He also pointed out the urgent need to build the capacity of enterprises and employers to prevent and address psychosocial risk factors, based on the employers' actual needs.
Through the technical presentations and groups works, participants developed a better understanding of mental health and discussed the basic OSH prevention measures for both physical and mental risks. They were also introduced to practical tools, including the ILO's resources and those developed by Thailand's Department of Mental Health, such as the Mental Health Check-in, a free online self-assessment tool for mental health that can be used at both the individual and organizational levels.
In his presentation, Dr Wee Mekwilai, Deputy Director of the Bureau of Mental Health Academic Affairs stated that "mental health is an occupational safety and health issue, not just a human resources issue."
"Yet, the recognition of mental health as an occupational safety and health matter is key," Dr Yuka Ujita, ILO Senior OSH Specialist and lead trainer, stressed.
© ILO
The workshop was organized by the "Promoting a safe and healthy working environment in Thailand and Cambodia" project, funded by the Government of Japan.
