Dr. Ayu Rahayu
Wellness Program Advisor, RKP
Burnout, imposter syndrome, and the pressure to 'do it all' — a candid conversation about mental wellness for working women in Indonesia.
The conversation around mental health in Indonesian workplaces is finally happening — and women are leading it.
At our recent Wellness Retreat in Bali, we asked participants to share their biggest challenges. The answers were revealing: 78% mentioned burnout, 65% said they struggled with imposter syndrome, and nearly half felt pressure to hide their struggles at work.
The Invisible Load
Working women in Indonesia often carry what researchers call the "invisible load" — the mental and emotional labor of managing careers, families, and social expectations simultaneously. This load is real, and it takes a toll.
What the Research Says
A 2025 study by the Indonesian Psychological Association found that women in professional roles are 40% more likely to experience burnout than their male counterparts, yet significantly less likely to seek help due to stigma.
Practical Steps Forward
Our Holistic Wellness Program has developed a framework we call the "Three Pillars of Sustainable Success": boundaries, community, and self-compassion.
Setting clear boundaries at work isn't selfish — it's strategic. Building a community of women who understand your experience provides both emotional support and practical advice. And practicing self-compassion means treating yourself with the same kindness you'd offer a friend.
Starting the Conversation
The most powerful thing you can do today? Talk about it. Share your experience with a trusted colleague, join a community like ours, or reach out to a mental health professional.
You don't have to carry this alone.
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Dr. Ayu Rahayu
Wellness Program Advisor, RKP
A dedicated member of the Ruang Kolaborasi Perempuan team, passionate about empowering women through education, community, and storytelling.
