Organized by the Sub-directorate of Student Counseling Services, the program aims to provide accessible, peer-level mental health support. Student representatives from various faculties attended the session, marking the beginning of a broader mental health support network.

Understanding Student Mental Health Issues

Afia Fitriani, S.Psi., M.Psi., Psychologist, opened the session with a discussion on Understanding Mental Health Among University Students. She referred to the World Health Organization (WHO) for the definition of mental health. WHO defines it as a state of well-being. In this state, individuals realize their abilities, handle daily stress, work productively, and contribute to their communities.

She also highlighted several challenges commonly faced by students. These include academic pressure, adapting to campus life, financial problems, social relationships, career uncertainty, and personal health concerns. Furthermore, family dynamics, moral dilemmas, and interpersonal conflicts can also contribute to mental stress.

Afia explained that various risk factors affect student mental health. These include physical illness, poor parenting, family conflict, academic demands, exposure to violence, and unsafe environments. However, there are also protective factors. Healthy eating and sleeping habits, strong emotional regulation, and supportive social relationships can improve well-being.

“Early detection through regular screening is essential,” Afia emphasized. “Academic mentors, instructors, or students can carry out screenings during mentoring sessions, classes, or online mental health tests.”

The session also introduced Psychological First Aid (PFA). This short-term intervention helps students experiencing trauma or acute stress. PFA applies the Look, Listen, and Link principles. Its purpose is to create safety, reduce distress, and accelerate recovery.

The Role and Responsibilities of Mental Health Agents

The second speaker, Berliana Widi Scarvanovi, S.Psi., M.Psi., Psychologist, is also the Head of the UNS Sub-directorate of Student Counseling Services. She explained the structure of UNS’s integrated mental health support system. It includes university-level counseling units, faculty-based centers, and peer-support initiatives involving trained MHAs.

According to Berliana, MHAs play a crucial role in improving mental health awareness among students. “They serve as the first point of contact for peers experiencing emotional or psychological challenges,” she said. “They also act as connectors between students and professional services.”

In addition, she stressed the importance of understanding role limitations. MHAs are only authorized to assist peers within the “healthy” mental phase. Students should refer more serious conditions to professional counselors.

The training also educated MHAs on recognizing the four phases of mental health: healthy, reactive, wounded, and ill. Participants learned basic screening techniques and how to deliver Psychological First Aid.

With representatives from multiple faculties, the event marks the formation of a university-wide MHA network. This network will play an active role in early detection, initial support, and facilitating access to professional mental health services at UNS. Humas UNS

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Promoting Mental Health Awareness Through Student Empowerment

The event began with a report presented by the Head of Student Counseling Services Section, Sadar Sutopo, S.T. The Vice-Rector for Student Affairs and Alumni, Prof. Ir. Doddy Ariawan, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., officially opened the event.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Doddy emphasized the urgent need to address mental health challenges in higher education. He pointed out that today’s students often face academic pressures and social stress. These challenges can impact their psychological well-being.

“Mental health is a strategic issue that requires serious attention. Through the formation of Mental Health Agents, we aim to build a more caring, responsive, and humane campus ecosystem,” Prof. Doddy said.

Furthermore, he appreciated the strong collaboration between UNS, student organizations (Ormawa), the Student Executive Board (BEM), and PIK R Cakra. This collaboration shows that building a mentally healthy campus is a shared responsibility.

Training to Build Supportive Campus Networks

The program continued with two presentation sessions. In the first session, psychologist Afia Fitriani, S.Psi., M.Psi., introduced key mental health issues that commonly affect university students. The second session, led by Berliana Widi Scarvanovi, S.Psi., M.Psi., Psychologist, who heads the Subdirectorate of Student Counseling Services at UNS, highlighted the university’s available counseling resources.

Notably, student representatives from various faculties at UNS attended the event. These participants will serve as Mental Health Agents. They will gain knowledge, practical skills, and support to foster a supportive campus environment.This mental health initiative also aligns with the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG): Good Health and Well-being. As a result, UNS continues to pave the way for inclusive mental health awareness and care in higher education. Humas UNS

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