Universitas Gadjah Mada
Faculty of Economics and Business

Maintaining mental health is a critical aspect for college students. The hectic schedule of classes and various assignments often leads to stress and anxiety. Therefore, students need to realize the importance of maintaining mental health to stay focused, productive, and able to face academic challenges effectively. So, what steps can be taken to maintain mental health amid a busy academic schedule?

Atikah Dian Rahmawati, M.Psi., a psychologist at the Career and Student Development Unit (CSDU) of the Faculty of Economics and Business, UGM, shared seven ways students can maintain their mental health.

First, engage in activities that match your skills and interests and develop hobbies. Spending time on hobbies has been proven to be effective in managing stress.

"In addition, pursuing hobbies can also enhance creativity, which helps reduce anxiety and stress," she said at the FEB UGM on Tuesday (10/9).

Second, maintain physical fitness by exercising, getting enough sleep, and eating nutritious and regular meals. These activities can help relieve emotional tension and clear the mind.

Third, recognize your feelings and express them appropriately. Acknowledging emotions such as anxiety or sadness is part of maintaining mental health without blaming yourself for these feelings.

Fourth, talk to someone you trust about your feelings and concerns. Sharing your thoughts with someone you trust can help ease your burden and reduce stress.

Fifth, actively participate in social activities. Social activities provide opportunities to build connections, friendships, and mutual support.

Sixth, surround yourself with supportive people. Being in a supportive social circle brings positive energy that influences your mental state.

Seventh, recognize the difference between things you can control and things you cannot. Atikah explained that some things you can control are your thoughts, feelings, behavior, and words. On the other hand, the thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and words of others, the outside world, and divine will are beyond your control.

"It's important to realize that I've done everything I can and to be at peace with that," she explained.

Reportage: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum 

Sustainable Development Goals