Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A recent study has unveiled concerning data about the mental health condition of teenagers in Jakarta, Indonesia. The findings show that 34 percent of high school students in the capital exhibit symptoms of mental disorders, with 30 percent displaying signs of anger and aggressive tendencies.
The study was conducted by the Health Collaborative Center (HCC) in collaboration with Fokus Kesehatan Indonesia (FKI), involving 741 students and 97 teachers across Jakarta, according to CNN Indonesia.
Ray Wagiu Basrowi, the lead researcher from HCC, emphasized that the study serves as a stark warning about significant mental health issues among Indonesian youth.
“This research provides a snapshot of the risks, symptoms, and potential impacts of adolescent mental health issues. These young people are expected to lead Indonesia’s ‘Golden Generation’ in 2045,” Ray stated during a presentation of the findings in Jakarta on Tuesday, December 17.
Root Causes of Mental Health Issues
The study identified peer conflicts as the most common cause of mental health challenges, affecting 26 percent of respondents. Emotional disturbances, such as excessive anxiety, were reported by 23 percent, while 29 percent of students exhibited hyperactive behaviors that impaired their concentration.
Ray noted that the prevalence of these issues significantly exceeded expectations based on earlier research, underscoring the need for a more in-depth analysis to uncover contributing factors.
Jakarta was specifically chosen as the focus of the study due to its diverse demographic composition, which is believed to represent youth nationwide.
“The review adhered to rigorous scientific standards, selecting three schools located in South Jakarta, North Jakarta, and East Jakarta. These areas provide a representative picture of teenage mental health in the city,” Ray added.
Barriers to Seeking Professional Help
Despite the prevalence of mental health challenges, many teenagers remain reluctant to seek help. The study found that 67 percent of respondents avoided visiting school counseling offices.
Instead, teenagers turned to their peers for support. About 55 percent admitted they confided in friends, while only 8 percent felt comfortable sharing their concerns with teachers.
Positive Findings
Amid the troubling data of the mental health conditions among teenagers, the study offered a glimmer of hope. It revealed that 86 percent of teenagers demonstrated positive social interaction skills.
Indonesia Implements New Passport Fees Starting December 17 2024
“They still have strong social abilities, such as showing respect for elders, which gives us some optimism,” Ray said. However, he cautioned that these social skills must be continuously nurtured, as they can easily erode over time.
“These emotional foundations need to be strengthened so they remain intact. There are still 20 years ahead of us before the Golden Generation of 2045, and we must ensure these youth receive the emotional training they need,” he concluded.
As Indonesia looks toward its vision of a ‘Golden Generation’ in 2045, addressing the mental health challenges of its youth today will be crucial in ensuring a resilient and capable future leadership.
(Raidi/Agung)
