UIN Jakarta Professor Encourages Gen Z to Prioritize Mental Health for a Brighter Future
FPSI, UIN News Online — In observance of World Mental Health Day 2024, Prof. Dr. Rena Latifa, M.Psi, a renowned psychologist from UIN Jakarta’s Faculty of Psychology, calls on the younger generation, especially Gen Z, to take mental health seriously as a crucial part of Indonesia’s progress toward Indonesia Emas 2045. In an exclusive interview on October 10, Prof. Rena emphasized the importance of mental well-being in realizing personal potential and enhancing productivity—a foundation for a prosperous future.
“Mental health means achieving inner peace, maintaining a stable mindset, and managing life’s pressures well,” Prof. Rena explained. She added that mentally healthy individuals are more productive, successfully navigating daily tasks and reaching personal goals. Recognizing a growing awareness among youth about mental health, she noted, "Awareness is rising, but so are reported cases, especially with the influence of social media. This could be due to greater openness about discussing mental health issues.”
Mental Health and Productivity: A Key to Achieving Golden Indonesia 2045
Prof. Rena highlighted the link between mental health and productivity as crucial to Indonesia’s 2045 demographic bonus. A strong foundation of mental health among the youth will play an essential role in fulfilling the nation’s vision for Indonesia Emas. “We cannot reach Indonesia Emas if mental health issues remain unaddressed,” she cautioned. “The productivity of our human resources drives prosperity, but this requires a resilient mental state. If many young people suffer from concentration issues, lowered academic performance, or a weakened memory, achieving Indonesia Emas will become more challenging.”
Adolescence, Prof. Rena noted, is a period when behavioral adjustments are more manageable than in adulthood. She urged various stakeholders, including families, schools, communities, and the government, to invest in mental health awareness and resources to foster a productive generation.
Gen Z and Mental Health Awareness: The Importance of Professional Help Over Self-Diagnosis
While Gen Z demonstrates increasing mental health awareness, Prof. Rena warned against the risks of self-diagnosis. “Although Gen Z is quick to recognize mental health signals, they often rely on incomplete information from the internet, which can lead to harmful misdiagnoses,” she said. Mislabeling symptoms may result in a negative self-concept and hinder proper mental well-being.
She advised that Gen Z, when noticing unusual patterns such as changes in mood, sleep, appetite, or hygiene, should consult a mental health professional. “If these symptoms last for more than a week, they should not be ignored,” Prof. Rena explained.
Building Supportive Systems to Address Gen Z Mental Health Challenges
Prof. Rena emphasized that the responsibility for addressing mental health issues extends beyond individuals. Family, friends, educational institutions, and the government all play a role in building supportive networks. The family, for instance, provides crucial micro-level support, which is further strengthened by community, educational, and policy-level efforts. Schools and the broader society should foster awareness and sensitivity to mental health issues, which can be especially helpful for adolescents hesitant to seek help due to stigma.
Prof. Rena encouraged anyone experiencing mental health struggles to consider online counseling as an accessible option for emotional support. “Being brave enough to reach out for help is essential; none of us can face every challenge alone.”
Inspiring a Positive Outlook on World Mental Health Day
In closing, Prof. Rena expressed her hope for increased mental health awareness, especially among teenagers, to foster a healthier, more knowledgeable generation. “Behavioral change starts with knowledge,” she stated, emphasizing that the more we understand mental health, the easier it becomes to shift attitudes and perceptions.
Her parting message for Gen Z was one of resilience and self-compassion. “Keep moving forward, find what makes you feel happy, and remember—you are never alone.”
Prof. Dr. Rena Latifa, M.Psi.
(Shely Nurloka/Fauziah M./Dzihan Aufa Kilmi Firdausi/Photo: PIH)