UNAIR NEWS – Indoor air quality has a significant effect on mental health, a topic explored during a recent guest lecture titled “The Role of Indoor Air Quality in Enhancing Workplace Mental Health,” held at the Soemarto Hall of Universitas Airlangga’s Faculty of Public Health (FKM). The lecture, which took place on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, featured Prof. Dr. Juliana Jalaludin B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., from Universiti Putra Malaysia as the keynote speaker.
In her opening remarks, Dean of FKM UNAIR, Prof. Dr. Santi Martini, dr., M.Kes., highlighted the importance of the discussion, noting its relevance to the broader issue of mental well-being. “There is actually a connection between pollution and mental health,” she said.
She explained that mental health discussions have traditionally focused on interpersonal dynamics. However, the COVID-19 pandemic shifted the conversation, as more people experienced isolation due to social distancing, which in itself became a trigger for mental health challenges.
“COVID-19 forced individuals to work alone, which could negatively affect mental health,” she added.
Prof. Martini hoped that the guest lecture would help broaden understanding by highlighting that mental health can also be influenced by environmental factors such as indoor air pollution—not just social or emotional issues. “This guest lecture is part of our efforts to understand how indoor air pollution contributes to mental health disorders, so we can take preventive measures to reduce the risks,” she emphasized.
Key research insights
Prof. Juliana Jalaludin presented findings from global studies indicating that people spend over 90% of their time indoors, with some groups—like infants—spending even more time inside. “Over 90% of our time is spent indoors, depending on age,” she said. This underscores why indoor air quality must be taken seriously.
She also revealed that indoor air can contain significantly more pollutants than outdoor air. “Indoor pollutants are two to five times more concentrated than those outdoors,” she noted. As a result, people may be exposed to higher levels of harmful substances even while staying indoors.
She explained that poor indoor air quality can stem from various factors, such as buildings constructed too closely together with little or no ventilation. Without adequate airflow, fresh air cannot enter, and stale, polluted air becomes trapped—leading to deteriorating indoor air quality.
Mental health consequences
Prof. Juliana Jalaludin detailed the mental health risks associated with indoor air pollutants, particularly volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These compounds are emitted from materials such as furniture finishes, paint thinners, and wall paint.
“VOCs are toxic and can lead to physiological stress,” she explained.
She also warned that stale air, particularly air with high carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels, can cause brain fog—a form of mental fatigue that impairs focus and cognitive clarity. “Elevated CO₂ levels affect brain function. Students should avoid studying in poorly ventilated spaces,” she advised.
In addition, she noted that dust particles can interfere with the body’s endocrine system, potentially contributing to anxiety and depression.
“Make sure your study or work space is free of dust,” she said, urging attendees to prioritize clean and healthy indoor environments.
Author: Septy Dwi Bahari Putri
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
