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Medical students are a diverse group with a high study load and psychological pressure. Rigorous academic demands, a competitive environment, and the moral responsibility of future healthcare professionals often contribute to stressors that can negatively impact students' mental well-being. If not managed properly, these conditions can lead to emotional exhaustion (burnout), anxiety disorders, and even suicidal ideation.

As a preventative and promotive effort to maintain student mental health, the Faculty of Medicine (FK) of Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) held a Workshop on Strengthening Student Resilience and Mental Health with the theme "Strong Mind, Safe Soul: Mental Health Awareness for Medical Students" on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

Held in the FK UNS auditorium, the event was attended by students from both the Undergraduate Medicine and Professional Medicine Programs. Approximately 150 participants joined both in-person and online. The speaker was Dr. Santi Yuliani, M.Sc., Sp.KJ., Subsp.ENP(K). It is hoped that this activity can be a forum for learning, reflection, and self-strengthening for students in facing academic pressures and daily life in the medical world.

According to Dr. Ratih Dewi Yudhani, dr., M.Sc., the Vice Dean for Student Affairs and Alumni at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sebelas Maret (FK UNS), the purpose of this workshop is to raise student awareness about the importance of mental health and resilience.

"I hope this activity will provide an understanding of stress management and mental health strategies, develop students' abilities in building self-compassion and social support, and prevent psychological disorders that can disrupt their education and personal lives," she said.

Dr. Arsita Eka Prasetyawati, dr., M.Kes., Sp.KKLP Subsp. FOMC, a lecturer and mental health agent at the FK UNS, explained that this year a mental health agent group consisting of two lecturers and two students was formed.

"Coincidentally, UNS already has a counseling service called Sasmita Jiwa, which facilitates students who experience mental or psychological problems," she mentioned.

He further explained that reporting can be done independently or through a mental health agent within the faculty, but it's also possible to report through a close friend or academic advisor. This report will be forwarded to the head of the study program, who will then forward it to Sasmita Jiwa, which will then use the UNS Medical Center's service channels. If a referral is needed, a psychiatrist will be consulted at the UNS Hospital.

"During counseling at Sasmita Jiwa, the results will be assessed to determine whether the student requires a further referral to a psychiatrist. If a referral is not needed, the student will be provided with three free counseling sessions. After that, there will be observation. If the student does not improve, the student will be referred to the UNS Hospital through the UNS Medical Center for further management," she explained.

Public Relations of FK UNS