The New Year is the perfect time to reflect and analyse our shared burdens, in order to move forward in a healthier way and continue to be a blessing to the universe. One of our common burdens is the high rate of mental health problems among adolescents in Indonesia.
According to the Indonesia-National Adolescent Mental Health Survey 2022,_ 15.5 million (34.9 per cent) adolescents experience mental problems, and 2.45 million (5.5 per cent) adolescents experience mental disorders. Of these, only 2.6 per cent access counselling services, both emotional and behavioural. The first national mental health survey to measure the incidence of mental disorders among adolescents 10-17 years old in Indonesia, shows that one in three Indonesian adolescents has a mental health problem. In addition, one in twenty Indonesian adolescents also experience mental disorders.
These figures equate to 15.5 million and 2.45 million adolescents diagnosed with mental disorders, respectively, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) guidelines that guide the diagnosis of mental disorders in Indonesia. The consequences of failing to address adolescent mental health conditions can have a devastating impact into adulthood. Expressions of a person experiencing mental illness include: (1) Frequent feelings of sadness. (2) Loss of ability to concentrate. (3) Excessive fear or worry or haunting feelings of guilt. (4) Drastic changes in mood. (5) Seeming to withdraw from friends and social circles. If left untreated, it can progress to more severe disorders and can damage physical, mental health, mindset and limit opportunities to lead a normal life as an adult.
Indonesia's much-hyped future demographic bonus will be eroded by the quality of human resources that suffer from mental health problems. The productivity and professionalism of future Indonesian workers could face problems. The coveted competitiveness could be corrected and defeated by other countries. There are many causes of mental health problems. Humans are the most complex creatures in the universe, so a comprehensive analysis is needed. At least physiological, psychological, sociological factors, and the wave of technological advancement take part in this problem. Even economic and political factors are intertwined to contribute. Coupled with the turmoil of the political year, which can make god-level chaos, more or less affects the burden on one's mental health.
In the context of Bible ministry, it is important to witness the relevance of the Bible in providing solutions to mental health problems. The Bible, which is very much related to the aspect of spirituality, must be able to overcome various problems of life including overcoming the factors that cause mental health disorders. The Bible, which is a collection of records of the experiences of believers and contains the truth of God's Word, has proven to be able to transform the personal and cultural lives of people in various parts of the world. The testimonies of many individuals, both alone and together, who read, meditate, live and apply the principles of the Bible, have proven to find various solutions in dealing with various life problems.
Many stories in the Bible show the restoration, healing, and deliverance from various diseases because of God's love. In this new year, we are reminded to be part of God's work of restoration, healing, and deliverance through His compassion. "All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness." 2 Tim 3:16 TB2. _(ST.1.1.2024)_
